Arsenal have signed Netherlands defender Jurrien Timber from Ajax.
The 22-year-old, who came through Ajax’s academy, has agreed to a long-term deal to become Arsenal’s second acquisition of the summer transfer window.
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“It was because of my brothers," Timber told the club's official website. "They were always Arsenal fans, and I just loved seeing Arsenal play. They had big players, the way they played, the style. I just love the club.
“I had this from a young age, but my brothers kind of put that in me. I liked watching Robin van Persie of course, and Thierry Henry. They were my favourite players.
"I think that I'm lucky to say that I can play as a central defender, as a right full-back, sometimes even on the midfield. So I think that's a good thing and I need to keep that.
“I just like the way Arsenal play, is a bit similar to Ajax’s style and I like to play from the back. I can see a lot of similarities, especially in the way Arsenal and Ajax want to play.
“I’m really excited, especially now I'm here. Everyone is so nice and you can see it's a big club. I'm excited to play for this beautiful club, and I can't wait to start, and to see the fans obviously in the stadium.”
Timber joined Ajax in 2014 and progressed to make his professional debut in 2019/20.
He racked up 121 senior appearances in all competitions, winning two league titles and a domestic cup.
The defender has been capped 15 times since making his debut in June 2021, and has represented his country since Under-15 level. He also featured four times in their run to the quarter-finals of FIFA World Cup 2022.
Manager Mikel Arteta added: “We’re really excited that Jurrien has joined us. He is a versatile young defender, who will fit into our system and provide our squad with so much added quality.
“Jurrien is a young player, but has already achieved so much. He has experienced what it’s like to go to a major international tournament on more than one occasion, as well as the trophies he has won with Ajax. We look forward to welcoming and integrating Jurrien into the squad.”
TV Info
Timber, who will wear the No 12 shirt for the Gunners, will hope to make his Premier League debut when Arsenal kick off their season on Saturday 12 August at home to Nottingham Forest.