Arsenal open contract talks with Jurrien Timber | OneFootball

Arsenal have begun negotiations with Jurrien Timber (24) over a new contract as the Dutch defender continues to establish himself as one of Mikel Arteta’s most important players.

According to BBC Sport, discussions remain at an early stage, but there is a strong desire from both the club and Timber’s representatives to secure an agreement that will extend his stay beyond his current deal, which runs until 2028.

Timber, 24, joined Arsenal from Ajax in the summer of 2023 for £34.4m, but his debut season was derailed by an anterior cruciate ligament injury sustained against Nottingham Forest on the opening day. He featured only once more before undergoing surgery, missing nearly the entire campaign.

However, he returned to make 51 appearances during the 2024–25 season, quickly reasserting himself as a first-choice option at right-back. His consistency this term has reinforced his status as a cornerstone of Arsenal’s defensive unit and underlined the club’s eagerness to tie him down on improved terms.

The Gunners are also holding talks with Bukayo Saka over a new long-term deal, while William Saliba has already committed to a five-year extension, signalling Arsenal’s intent to secure the core of their squad for the future.

GFN | Finn Entwistle