ARSENAL are hoping for a breakthrough in their pursuit of Ajax’s Jurrien Timber after submitting a second bid on Monday.
After having an opening offer of £30million rejected for the defender, the Gunners have returned with a bid of £41.5million.
Ajax value the 22-year-old at closer to £50million but talks are continuing this week and Arsenal are confident of finding a compromise.
Timber, who was a target for Manchester United last summer, will form part of a huge summer push by Mikel Arteta.
The Gunners boss wants to step things up after their second place finish last season to continue challenging champions Manchester City.
German international Kai Havertz will make a £65million move from Chelsea after completing a medical in Spain over the weekend.
Meanwhile talks over a £100million move for West Ham captain Declan Rice are progressing with a third bid expected this week.
The three deals, totalling more than £200million, would see Arsenal set a new club record for spending in a single summer.
Landing Timber would give Arteta quality depth across his entire back line, as well as defensive midfield.
The 15-time Holland international has already made 121 appearances for Ajax, leading them to two titles in the process.
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And he is thought to have agreed personal terms with Arsenal on a long-term contract worth £120,000 a week.
The deal also fits in perfectly with Arteta’s vision of a world-class squad of youngsters.
The Spaniard is yet to make any signings this window.
But a move for Chelsea forward Havertz is now on the verge of completion.
It’s reckoned Arsenal will pay £65m for the German Champions League winner.
And a medical for Havertz has already taken place as he prepares to make a controversial cross-London switch.
The Chelsea ace isn’t the only capital-based star in Arsenal’s sights.
West Ham captain Rice is also a major target after leading his side to Europa Conference League glory.
The England ace is keen on making the move to the Emirates.
However, Treble winners Manchester City are threatening to hijack the bid after losing Ilkay Gundogan to Barcelona.
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