Sources report that Arsenal are negotiating to recruit Ajax defender Jurrien Timber but could face competition from Bayern Munich.
The north London club has made an opening bid in the vicinity of £30 million ($38.3 million), but Ajax values the 22-year-old at closer to £50 million ($63.9 million).
Arsenal is optimistic about acquiring Timber, but Bayern is monitoring the situation, and it remains to be seen whether they will make a formal offer.
Mikel Arteta desires to bolster his centre-back options after William Saliba’s back injury hampered the team’s performance last season.
Arsenal were leading the Premier League on March 16 when Saliba was injured, but they won only five of their final 11 games without him to finish second behind Manchester City.
Arsenal are preparing improved proposals for West Ham midfielder Declan Rice and Chelsea forward Kai Havertz as they attempt to close a deal for Timber.
Last week, the east London club rejected a proposal worth £80m ($102.2m) plus £10m ($12.7m) in add-ons from Arsenal. The Gunners are expected to return with a second offer closer to West Ham’s asking price, which is believed to be at least £100m ($127.8m).
Additionally, Chelsea anticipates a revised offer for Havertz. Arsenal have been unwilling to meet Chelsea’s £70 million ($89.4 million) valuation of the forward, but they are poised to make a second, improved offer for the 24-year-old.
ESPN reported on Monday that Chelsea are under pressure to reduce their demands after learning Havertz does not intend to sign a new contract.
Both Havertz and Rice are rumored to be eager to join Arsenal, with personal circumstances not anticipated to be an obstacle.
