Jurrien Timber has reportedly agreed terms with Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, but the defender has been told to stay at Ajax and not move to the Emirates Stadium.
Netherlands legend Marco van Basten has said that Ajax defender Jurrien Timber should not join Arsenal in the summer transfer window, as quoted in The Mirror.
The legendary striker has said that the 22-year-old, who can operate as a central defender or as a right-back, should stay at Ajax and not move to the Gunners despite having already agreed terms with Mikel Arteta’s side.
The Mirror have claimed that Arsenal will pay Ajax an initial transfer fee of £40 million for Timber, who has agreed a five-year contract and “is scheduled to arrive in London in the next 72 hours to seal the deal”.
Van Basten said: “You have only been playing at Ajax for just three years. How old are you now? Twenty-one or just turned 22? You have to be careful that you don’t become a reserve player there.
“I would have waited to get more experience. Another year at Ajax would have suited you. You shouldn’t go somewhere just to participate. You should go to a club where you will be regarded as a leader and a dominant figure in the team. Everyone in the dressing room at your new club will look at you and say ‘go on, show us what you can do.’
“And if your fellow players don’t feel you can really improve the team, then they’re all against you. You will be considered an intruder.”
What should Jurrien Timber do about Arsenal transfer?
In our opinion, Jurrien Timber should have confidence in his ability and move to Arsenal in the summer transfer window.
Yes, the 22-year-old will have to work hard to get into the team at Arsenal.
And yes, there will be times when the Netherlands international will be criticised.
But, that is all part of the game.
Arsenal are a massive club and a global brand, and the chance to move to the Gunners does not come often.
The North London club will play in the UEFA Champions League next season and will also aim to win the Premier League title.
Arsenal are going places, and we believe that Timber should not now make a U-turn over a potential transfer to the Gunners.
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