Mikel Arteta target makes Arsenal his ‘dream’ with Man Utd example cited for Gunners pursuit

Arsenal’s pursuit of Jurrien Timber has been boosted by claims that the Ajax defender’s goal is to join the Premier League team.

With the team now back in the Champions League, the Gunners are hoping to strengthen during the summer. Mikel Arteta will lead his charges into Europe’s premier club tournament after finishing second. Timber is one of several players who have been connected with the north Londoners.

According to recent reports, they have already had one bid for the versatile stopper rejected. That amount was roughly £30 million, with Ajax aiming for a sum closer to £50 million.

And, with Bayern Munich reportedly keen, it is far from clear that he will finish up at the Emirates.

However, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano just tweeted that he had “accepted to join Arsenal”.

De Telegraaf writer Mike Verweij has now confirmed those statements.

He stated on the Kick-off podcast that there are only two clubs in the running.

And the Dutch international is certainly aiming for a transfer to the capital.

“Timber has said from the very first moment that he only wants to leave Ajax for an absolute top club,” he said.

“He doesn’t listen at all to other clubs that report after Arsenal and Bayern Munich.

“Even Bayern Munich, who have not yet made an offer, are still waiting. Because Arsenal are his dream and priority. He set his sights on that.”

Compromise expected on Timber price

It is expected to be another summer of big-name signings around Europe, with many top stars on the move.

Arsenal appears to be interested in a few, with Declan Rice their undisputed top target.

The West Ham player is worth over £100 million, and the Gunners have already had many bids rejected.

Timber does not fall into that category, but the 22-year-old will not be cheap.

Arsenal’s original bid was flatly rejected by the Amsterdam giants.

They are looking for roughly £50 million, but Verweij believes the teams will agree to meet halfway.

“Ajax and Arsenal really still have to negotiate about the transfer fee,” he added. “But Timber has also been promised to think along, so there is an agreement.

“No fixed transfer fee, but that we think along. Ajax bet on €60m. I think they will come out between €40m and €50m (£35m and £42m).

Arsenal to follow Man Utd’s example

Manchester United seemed to take a gamble when recruiting Lisandro Martinez last summer.

The Argentina international seemed to be too small to play in the Premier League as a central defender.

But he has proven his naysayers wrong by leading the Red Devils to third place.

The South American was also signed by Ajax, which Verweij believes might affect Arsenal’s pursuit of Timber.

“The fact that Martinez did so well at United was also an indication for Arsenal that it is possible to get players from the Eredivisie who immediately do well,” he continued.