Stick or twist? Should Arsenal sign another defender this summer?

Our worst fears were realized on Wednesday as Arsenal confirmed that Jurrien Timber has an ACL injury and will be sidelined for much of the 2023/24 campaign.

His impending absence is a huge blow for both the club and player as Jurrien Timber had become an immediate fan favorite and impressed many on his Gunners debut, helping the team overcome Manchester City and claim a 17th Community Shield.

Inevitably, it also sparks talk of Arsenal re-entering the market for solutions to enrich their backline flexibility, with Mikel Arteta surely keen not to let injuries derail yet another campaign.

Arsenal and Jurrien Timber: Is it time to buy another defender this summer?

So, the big question remains: should Arsenal sign another defender this summer or stick to what they have already got? Here are some arguments to help you decide.

1. Reason to buy: The Timber profile is too important to forego

Arsenal bought Timber for good reason, and it is a big risk to leave that void unfilled.

The 22-year-old offered great versatility to our defense and proved his worth in that regard even in the short period since his arrival, operating at right back in pre-season and on the opposite side against Nottingham Forest last weekend.

This specific quality formed the cornerstone of our interest, with Mikel Arteta admitting on Thursday that Timber was recruited with “clear intentions” and gave the team “very different things” on both sides.

His comments suggest the Dutchman was earmarked for crucial rotation as well as providing an excellent, adaptable option who would help us always to maintain high standards on the pitch irrespective of injuries/suspensions- a legitimate worry that will now resurface.

Margins between success and failure are often small in elite competition. Arsenal cannot afford to leave themselves short.