'Saka the reason for Timber choosing Arsenal' over Man Utd

Carlo Garganese

• 21 Jun 2023 14:20 BST
• 3 min read

Former Ajax and Netherlands star Urby Emanuelson has advised Jurrien Timber to“choose Arsenal” over Manchester United this summer.

In a big story that broke on Tuesday, The Athletic revealed that Arsenal are closing in on the signing of Timber.

David Ornstein reported that Arsenal have bid £30 million for the Dutchman. Ajax are requesting £50m for the 22-year-old, and the feeling is that a compromise somewhere close to the middle should be doable.

READ MORE: Premier League 2023/24 summer transfers: All the Done Deals

Personal terms have already been agreed, leaving Arsenal in a strong position to complete the deal.

This comes as a blow to Manchester United, who are huge fans of Timber and tried to sign him last summer. Indeed, FootballTransfers report that Arsenal hijacked United by accelerating for Timber.

It remains to be seen if United will now accelerate themselves and make a bid but Emanuelson - who also featured for AC Milan - has advised Timber to join Arsenal.

What did Emanuelson say?

“Timber has had a few good years. Maybe a little less last season, but in my opinion, he is a very great talent,” Emanuelson told Voetbal Primeur’s Done Deal podcast.

“I know that the Timber family is very good at planning the careers of the brothers. On the one hand, I think Jur is ready for the step. On the other hand, if you’ve had a lesser season at Ajax… I find it difficult to advise him.

“I would choose Arsenal. Why? They treat young players very well there. If you see how they deal with Martinelli, Odegaard, Saka… They are all guys who are allowed to make mistakes and are made important at the same time.“

“(He) has the potential to become the absolute top. That’s why Arsenal would be a good step. Arsenal is growing, they will build on that.”

Arsenal are also on the verge of completing the signing of Kai Havertz from Chelsea, and are in advanced talks for Declan Rice from West Ham.