Arsenal target Jurrien Timber was not seen in their first outdoor training session ahead of his move to the Premier League. The Gunners and the Dutch juggernauts came to terms last week on an initial £36 million (€42 million) price plus a further £4 million (€5 million) in add-ons. When Timber returned from his vacation at the end of last month, he was working independently at Ajax’s training facility. However, according to the Dutch publication AD, he was absent on Saturday when Steijn led his first group practice of the preseason on the outdoor pitches. The same article also states that Steijn and Ajax do not anticipate seeing Timber return because of how soon his deal with Arsenal will take place.
Personal details between Jurrien Timber and Arsenal have already been agreed upon, and official completion is anticipated shortly. Arsenal is also close to finalising the £105 million acquisition of Declan Rice, after previously announcing Kai Havertz. The adaptable Timber, who is anticipated to replace Oleksandr Zincehnko as the starting right defender and mimic his inverted style on the other flank, will strengthen the Arsenal defense, which struggled in the final two months of last season’s Premier League title race and contributed to their loss in the race. In April, allowing 11 goals to be conceded in the span of four losses left Manchester City, who scored four of those goals, with an open path to victory.
Emile Smith Rowe has said that he will compete for a slot next season alongside newly acquired Kai Havertz. Due to a number of injuries and the performance of other players in his position, including Martin Odegaard and Gabriel Martinelli, Smith Rowe only had a minor role during the 2022–23 season.
“I see what occurs, and certainly strengthening the team is excellent for the club. The changes we’re making, in my opinion, will truly help the squad advance,” Smith-Rowe said. “It’s incredibly thrilling, so perhaps next season we can advance even further. Yes, but this is football, after all. Simply go forward with the situation. It’s good competition, and I need to keep working hard. I must continue the struggle.”
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