EXCLUSIVE: Arsenal late approach for La Liga star snubbed

Steve Kay

Updated: 2 Sep 2023 08:14 CDT
3 min read

Mikel Arteta and the Arsenal badge in front of a red and white checked background — © ProShots

Arsenal had lined up a replacement for Jurrien Timber before the end of yesterday's transfer window deadline but ultimately failed to get a deal over the line.

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We are told that the club’s sporting director, Edu, had conversations with a number of players in the last week, including Joao Cancelo and Eric Garcia.

We are also informed that Arsenal had weighed up a surprising move for Martin Zubimendi, and even went as far as contacting the representatives of the Real Sociedad midfielder.

It is thought that a January deal could be on the cards for the Spaniard now, but only if Thomas Partey departs the club.

Arsenal also made an approach to sign Manchester City defender Cancelo, but Pep Guardiola’s side simply wouldn't sell or loan the player to Arsenal even though the Portuguese defender was open to joining his former coach, Mikel Arteta.

We understand that Partey will now be Arsenal’s first-choice right back, or possibly Ben White if Arsenal return to a centre-back pairing of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes.

We have also learned that Arteta is looking at youngster Reuell Walters as possibly emerging as the Gunners' short-term Timber replacement as well.

© ProShots - Timber is now injured for a considerable period

Timber’s injury progress

Timber has started the recovery phase from his ACL injury that he sustained in the 2-1 win over Nottingham Forest last month.

After moving from Ajax in the summer window, a fee worth around £40million, the Dutch international was forced off early in the second half in their opening weekend win over the Midlands clubs, while subsequent scans showed that he had suffered a severe injury to his ACL.

Timber had surgery on his right knee two weeks ago and it’s thought he won’t be back until near the end of the season.