Timber sealed his move to north London on Friday (Picture: Getty)
Jurrien Timber has he has completed his boyhood dream in sealing his move to Arsenal, following in the footsteps of his heroes Robin van Persie and Thierry Henry.
The Netherlands international becomes the Gunners’ second signing of the summer following the arrival of Kai Havertz from Chelsea and will wear the no12 shirt at the Emirates.
The versatile defender was strongly linked with Manchester United last summer with Erik ten Hag eager to make him one of his first signings after his arrival from Ajax.
But Timber has now realised his dream of playing for Arsenal, naming former Gunners’ stars van Persie and Henry as two of bis boyhood heroes.
Explaining his love of the club, Timber told Arsenal’s official website: ‘It was because of my brothers.
‘They were always Arsenal fans, and I just loved seeing Arsenal play. They had big players, the way they played, the style. I just love the club.
‘I had this from a young age, but my brothers kind of put that in me. I liked watching Robin van Persie of course, and Thierry Henry. They were my favourite players.’
Timber following in the footsteps of van Persie and Henry (Picture: Getty)
After last season’s second place finish behind Manchester City, Mikel Arteta has wasted little time in strengthening his squad this summer and is confident he can make an instant impact in north London.
‘We’re really excited that Jurrien has joined us,’ Arteta said.
‘He is a versatile young defender, who will fit into our system and provide our squad with so much added quality.
‘Jurrien is a young player, but has already achieved so much.
‘He has experienced what it’s like to go to a major international tournament on more than one occasion, as well as the trophies he has won with Ajax. We look forward to welcoming and integrating Jurrien into the squad.’
Timber will now join up with the Arsenal squad for their pre-season tour of the US which kicks off next Thursday against an MLS All-Star side, followed by a friendly clash with Manchester United three days later.
MORE : Jurrien Timber names three positions he could play in after sealing Arsenal move
MORE : Arsenal confirm the signing of Jurrien Timber from Ajax
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Timber will wear the no12 shirt.
