Jurrien Timber has finally been announced as a new Arsenal player after a £40million deal was struck with Ajax.
Mikel Arteta made landing the 22-year-old a priority signing to provide depth in defence ahead of the Gunners’ return to the Champions League.
He will wear the No.12 shirt after signing a long-term deal, which was agreed more than a week ago.
Manager Arteta said: “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.”
The north Londoners failed with an initial offer of £30m, but remained confident at securing his services.
TalkSPORT reported how talks were at an advanced stage last month, with Timber only having his eyes set on a switch to the Emirates.
That is despite Bayern Munich boss Thomas Tuchel looking to lure the Netherlands international to the Allianz Arena.
Timber had also been on the radar of Premier League clubs Manchester United and Liverpool, but Arteta proved pivotal in convincing the youngster to join Arsenal.
Capable of playing as a centre-back and full-back, the Ajax academy graduate will likely battle with Ben White to start as an inverted right-back in Arteta’s system.
Ajax were willing to part ways with Timber with the player having just a year left on his contract.
And they were happy to accept a reduced fee for Timber after he snubbed a move to Old Trafford last summer to give Ajax another year of service.
