Arsenal actively trying to sign £50m reported Liverpool target, they’ve just made a bid

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Arsenal have made the first concrete move in the race to sign reported Liverpool target Jurrien Timber.

Timber has been rumoured to be on the Reds’ short list for defensive reinforcements this summer. However, journalist Fabrizio Romano recently played down those links and now, according to The Athletic, Arsenal have swooped in.

They report that the Gunners have made an opening offer of £30m to sign the Ajax defender. This reportedly won’t be enough to get Timber though, with the Dutch side said to be holding out for £50m.

Despite the current £20m difference in valuation, it’s claimed that there is ‘optimism’ that a compromise can be reached.

Personal terms with the Netherlands international are reportedly ‘already in place,’ with Arsenal working on a resolution with Ajax over the fee. Liverpool’s hopes – if they do harbour any – look to be slipping away.

Arsenal make Timber offer

Timber would have been an interesting option for Liverpool this summer. Capable of playing centre-back, defensive midfield and even at right-back, the 21-year-old is as versatile as they come.

On paper he would appear to have the kind of qualities needed to execute Trent Alexander-Arnold’s hybrid midfield/right-back role.

Perhaps it was those qualities that led to claims that Timber was ‘probably’ going to sign for Liverpool. He appeared to have the skill-set needed.

But alas, unless Arsenal’s move lights a fire under Liverpool, they’re going to miss out on him. At the moment, there’s no suggestion that any other clubs will attempt to hijack Mikel Arteta’s plans.

Liverpool are instead seemingly searching for a left-footed centre-back to provide cover for Virgil van Dijk.

As things stand another Dutchman – Wolfsburg’s Micky van de Ven – would appear to be the most likely candidate. Tall, quick and imposing, Van de Ven has more makings of an orthodox centre-half than Timber.

The Ajax man has a very interesting profile that you don’t come across every day, though. If Arsenal can get this over the line, he’ll be a really good addition for them. Another one bites the dust, then. Let’s get moving, Liverpool.