Arsenal 'closing in on deal for Ajax's Jurrien Timber'

The Gunners confirmed the signing of Kai Havertz from Chelsea on Wednesday, while the club are also on the verge of bringing in Declan Rice from West Ham United.

Timber has also been heavily linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium in recent days, and according to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, a full agreement between the two clubs is close to being found.

Romano claims that the teams are 'entering in the final stages of talks', with only minor details needing to be discussed before an announcement is made.

The journalist reports that an agreement is likely to be found in the region of €45m (£38.8m), with Arsenal the clear favourites despite suggestions of interest from Manchester United and Liverpool.

Man United were heavily linked with Timber during last summer's transfer window, with Red Devils head coach Erik ten Hag said to be keen on a reunion with the defender in Manchester.

Meanwhile, Liverpool have been linked with the Netherlands international over the last few weeks.

Timber signed a new contract with Ajax last August, with his current terms running until June 2025, but he is expected to leave Amsterdam during the current market.

The Dutchman was again a vital player for his current club last season, featuring on 47 occasions in all competitions, contributing two goals and two assists in the process.

Meanwhile, Timber has represented Ajax on 121 occasions in all competitions, scoring six goals and registering four assists.

The Dutchman is capable of playing as a right-back, but it is understood that Arsenal are signing him to provide competition in the middle of their defence.

Arsenal are backing head coach Mikel Arteta during this summer's market, with the Spaniard already being presented with the funds to sign Havertz, and Rice is set to arrive in a British-record deal.

The Gunners will be back in pre-season training next week, with their first friendly of the summer set to take place against Nurnberg on July 13.