Jurrien Timber set to renew rivalry with Darwin Nunez after vowing to 'boss' Liverpool striker

Arsenal signing Jurrien Timber is set to renew his rivalry with Liverpool star Darwin Nunez.

On Friday the Gunners announced they had completed the signing of Netherlands defender Jurrien Timber from Ajax for £34million plus £4million in performance-related add-ons.

The 22-year-old, who signed a five-year deal with the north Londoners, can play in the centre of defence and at right-back.

"We're really excited Jurrien has joined us. He is a versatile young defender," said Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta.

"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."

Ahead of the new campaign the 15-cap Netherlands international has an opportunity to renew his rivalry with Liverpool forward Nunez.

Timber vs Nunez

In March 2022, Benfica edged past Ajax 3-2 on aggregate, to reach the Champions League quarter final.

The Portuguese giants’ tie-winning goal came courtesy of Nunez, then plying his trade at the Primeira Liga side. At the time, the Uruguay international towered over Timber to convert Grimaldo’s well-placed free-kick.

And when Liverpool took on Ajax in the group stage of last season’s Champions League, Timber vowed to this time “boss” Nunez, who had signed for Liverpool that summer.

Speaking prior to the game, Timber told Dutch outlet Voetbal International: “I immediately thought of it [Nunez’s goal]. The intention is that I will be the boss of him now.”

Unfortunately, Nunez got the better of Timber once more, forcing his way past the Dutchman to power a header into the net, as the Anfield club went on to win 3-0 and book their place in the Champions League knock-out stages.

Arsenal fans will be hoping it's third time lucky for Timber when the Gunners take on Liverpool this term.