3 reasons why Arsenal are making a move for Jurrien Timber

2. Elite in possession

Arsenal’s build-up was transformed by William Saliba and Oleksandr Zinchenko last season, with the drop-off stark when these two weren’t in the starting XI.

Timber, like each member of Arteta’s favoured back four, is superb with the ball at his feet and has gained much veneration for his composure in possession and passing range.

The Dutchman is comfortable driving out of defence if space is afforded to him, and he’s capable of delivering intricate passes in the final third akin to a bona fide playmaker. Timber made, on average, 9.8 passes into the final third per game in the Eredivisie last season.

Nobody averaged more touches per game in the Dutch top-flight than the 22-year-old last season (90.5), depicting his influence in possession and willingness to receive the ball at any given moment.

While there may be an initial baptism of fire after arriving in the Premier League, Timber’s natural grace and confidence in possession will swiftly shine through in Arteta’s sound structure.

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