Premier League giants Arsenal have confirmed the transfer of defender Jurrien Timber from Ajax.

The 22-year-old center-back, who can also be deployed as a right-back, has signed a five-year contract with the Gunners and becomes the club’s second completed transfer following Kai Havertz’s arrival from London rivals Chelsea.

Jurrien Timber moves to Arsenal

Timber will wear the number 12 shirt next season for Mikel Arteta’s men and moves for a fee of $43.5m plus $5.5m in largely realistic bonuses.

The news has been announced on the club’s official website which called Timber a key member of an Ajax side that won two league titles and a Dutch Cup title during the defender’s time in Amsterdam.

Speaking of his new signing, head coach Arteta said, “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”.

Timber is likely to be used as a right-back during his first term in England, allowing Ben White to move back to his more natural central defensive position, and is due to be joined imminently by West Ham captain Declan Rice at the Emirates Stadium.