Arsenal have also supposedly begun contract negotiations with Holland defender Jurrien Timber, hoping to keep him at the Emirates past his present contract, which expires in 2028. This choice by the Gunners indicates the player’s increasing power and the manager’s confidence, Mikel Arteta, in the player as a pillar of the defensive structure.
However, Timber did not get to PS34.4 million in a straight line since its purchase in Ajax in 2023. He suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury during his first season, ruining his debut in the Premier League. Only two appearances in that campaign, the question was how soon he could recuperate. However, his resurgence in the 2024-25 season was incredible as he played 51 games in various competitions and guaranteed his role in the team.
Timber has been particularly impressive this season. He played five of the first six Premier League matches, pushing Ben White out of the right-back position. His calm, flexibility, and strength have seen him become an important player in Arteta’s schemes.
Arteta had no doubts when questioned about the long-term future of Timber. “Yes, one hundred per cent. Particularly, the players who would like to be with us. And we wish to tie our futures with them, he said. The manager commended Timber’s mentality, referring to his determination to surmount a career-threatening injury.
Talks with Timber are in the initial phases, though both parties are sure that a deal can be made. Arsenal is also negotiating an extension with Bukayo Saka, and William Saliba recently signed a new long-term contract.
As the project led by Arteta depends so much on young and hungry players, the decision to bind Timber to an even longer timeframe indicates the club’s desire to achieve consistency and permanence in its silverware quest.
