Jurrien Timber has felt “at home” after moving from Ajax to Arsenal.
The 22-year-old defender has joined the Gunners on a long-term deal, becoming the club’s second signing of the summer after Kai Havertz.
Arsenal is believed to have paid around £38 million for Timber, who boasts 121 senior appearances for Ajax.
Timber is expected to link up with the squad for their pre-season tour of the United States, where they will face an MLS All-Star XI in their next warm-up match.
Despite previous links to Manchester United and Liverpool, Timber states that he had no doubts about joining Arsenal once he became aware of their interest.
Timber gives four reasons for joining Arsenal
In a video to announce his move, Timber explained his decision to join the Gunners.
“Growing up in Utrecht, we all dreamed of being football players,” said the Dutch defender.
“When I watched games with my brothers when I was a kid, of course I wanted to play for one of the biggest and best teams in the world.
“But I really had a sense that it had to be a team that plays in the right way, a club that has the right values, that develops young talent and has an unbreakable bond with its supporters.
“And now that I’m here, I feel at home already. Something special is happening here. And I want to be part of it. Now, let’s get to work.”
Explaining his decision to sign Timber, Arteta told theclub’s website: “We’re really excited that Jurrien has joined us. He is a versatile young defender, who will fit into our system and provide our squad with so much added quality.
The Arsenal family continues to grow ❤️ pic.twitter.com/VovE3Zt24J
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) July 14, 2023
“Jurrien is a young player, but has already achieved so much. He has experienced what it’s like to go to a major international tournament on more than one occasion, as well as the trophies he has won with Ajax.
“We look forward to welcoming and integrating Jurrien into the squad.”
While sporting director Edu added: “We are very happy to bring Jurrien to Arsenal. He is a player that we have admired for a long time, so it’s a credit to everyone in our team that made this happen.
“Jurrien is a young talented international player, who fits our vision of competing with a young strong squad. I know Jurrien cannot wait to get started and we’re really hoping that he will be a great success here for many years.”