Arsenal 'contact agent' of Germany international Benjamin Henrichs as Jurrien Timber talks drag on

Arsenal have contacted the agent of RB Leipzig defender Benjamin Henrichs over a potential summer transfer, it has been reported.

The Gunners are currently closing in on a deal to sign centre-back Jurrien Timber from Ajax.

The 22-year-old, who can also play at right-back, missed training on Monday, as per Tribal Football, in preparation for a medical at the Emirates Stadium.

Sky Sports reporter Mark McAdam explained that the two clubs are in advanced talks over the transfer of the defender, with only valuation and the structure of any deal still to be finalised.

McAdam added that the player wants the move to north London, but the transfer has not yet been completed.

Arsenal are also eyeing alternative targets - and are reportedly interested in signing a Bundesliga right-back.

Arsenal 'contact agent of Henrichs'

Plettenberg has reported (via kicker), Arsenal have held talks with the representatives of Henrichs, who began his senior career at Bayer Leverkusen.

His career then stalled during a three-year spell at Ligue 1 side Monaco, but his return to Germany in 2021, when he signed for Leipzig, has rejuvenated him.

He has won consecutive DFB-Pokal titles in 2021/22 and 2022/23, and has worked his way back into the Germany senior side, with five caps in the last 18 months.

Plettenberg tweeted: "Talks between Arsenal and the player's management took place. Gunners considering Benjamin Henrichs as a backup target.

"Arteta, with a very good opinion about the German national. Contract at Leipzig until 2025; important player for coach [Marco] Rose."

Another alternative for Arsenal is Manchester City full-back Joao Cancelo. Kicker claim that the Gunners are still keen on the Portugal defender, who spent the second half of the most recent campaign on loan at Bayern Munich.

He will not be returning to the German giants next season, with Thomas Tuchel's side declining to activate the €70 million option to purchase him on a permanent deal from the reigning treble winners.