14 July (Reuters) Both Ajax Amsterdam and Arsenal announced on Friday that they had agreed to a long-term contract for Dutch defender Jurrien Timber.

The contract's duration was not disclosed by Arsenal, however the British media has reported that it is a five-year agreement.

"Ajax and the English club reached an agreement on a transfer fee of 40 million euros ($44.88 million). Variables allow that sum to rise to 45 million euros, according to a statement from Ajax.

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After beginning his junior career at Feyenoord, Timber transferred to the youth program of Ajax in 2014.

During Ajax's Eredevisie-winning seasons in 2021 and 2022, he made 50 league games after breaking into the first squad during the 2019–20 season.

Since making his international debut in 2021, the 22-year-old Dutchman has received 15 caps.

The fact that Jurrien has joined us makes us very happy. He is a versatile young defender who will fit into our system and contribute a ton of quality to our group, according to Mikel Arteta, the manager of Arsenal.

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"Jurrien is a young player, but he has accomplished so much already.

Along with the prizes he has won with Ajax, "He has experienced what it's like to go to a major international tournament on more than one occasion."

Last season, Arsenal came in second place to eventual champions Manchester City and has now earned a spot in the Champions League for the first time since the 2016–17 season.

The North London club has acquired German forward Kai Havertz from Chelsea and is also seeking to bolster their midfield, with Declan Rice of West Ham United one among their top targets.