Arsenal launch £30million bid for Manchester United target Jurrien Timber – but Ajax want more

Arsenal are looking to steal a march on their rivals by signing Ajax’s versatile defender Jurrien Timber.

The 22-year-old is expected to depart Amsterdam this summer, with Manchester United known to be huge admirers of the Netherlands international.

Getty

Erik ten Hag made him a priority signing when he swapped Ajax for Old Trafford last year, but the move ultimately failed to materialise and Lisandro Martinez was signed instead.

Timber fuelled speculation that United could look to reignite their interest when he rocked up to Wembley to watch the FA Cup final.

Liverpool have also been linked with the player, but it is the Gunners that have made the first move to sign him this window.

According to The Athletic, the north Londoners have lodged a £30m offer – £20m short of Ajax’s valuation.

But Arsenal are said to be hopeful an agreement can be reached for Timber, who has two years left on his contract.

Personal terms between the club and Timber are reportedly already in place.

Timber’s versatility in being able to operate as a centre-back as well as a right-back is claimed to be hugely appealing to boss Mikel Arteta.

Getty

Timber recently hinted at a move away from Ajax as he stated he is destined to join a top club in the near future.

He told Dutch outlet De Telegraaf: “A transfer is getting closer and closer, so to speak. There is a lot of concrete interest and I have made agreements with Ajax.

“Last year Ajax asked me to stay for at least one more season and to extend my contract. As a club boy I did that with love and after the season we will review the situation.”

The youngster added: “At the Dutch national team, I often talk to boys who play football abroad.

“I want to take that step someday. But when that is, you will eventually hear and it will happen in consultation with Ajax. 

“I’m still here anyway and I’m in no hurry. The focus is now on the cup final and the remainder of the competition.”