Arsenal hand Jurrien Timber new deal

Arsenal are moving fast to tie down Jurrien Timber on a new contract after the Dutchman’s remarkable return from a horror injury.

The 24-year-old, who arrived from Ajax in 2023 for £34.4m, saw his debut season ruined when he tore his ACL on the opening day against Nottingham Forest. He barely kicked a ball that year.

But the defender roared back last season, clocking 51 appearances and cementing himself as Mikel Arteta’s first-choice right-back. His form this term has only underlined his importance to the Gunners’ title push.

According to BBC Sport, early talks have begun over a deal that would extend Timber’s stay at the Emirates beyond 2028. Both Arsenal and the player are said to be keen on getting it done.

The Gunners are also negotiating with Bukayo Saka over a new long-term contract, with optimism high that their England star will commit his future soon.