Arsenal 'open talks' to sign 'exceptional' £60m replacement for Jurrien Timber

Arsenal have reportedly opened talks to sign Manchester City full-back Joao Cancelo as a replacement for Jurrien Timber.

Summer signing Timber made his Premier League debut last weekend during Arsenal’s 2-1 win over Nottingham Forest at the Emirates Stadium.

However, the Dutchman had to go off early in the second half after suffering what looked like a serious injury.

This week, it was confirmed that Timber has had to undergo surgery after suffering an ACL injury, meaning he now faces an extended spell on the sidelines.

Timber wrote on social media: “Gutted to share my injury is more serious than expected, especially after the warm welcome I've received.

“I wanted to repay you on the pitch, which will not be possible for the forthcoming period. I'm blessed with a lot of great people around me, together we will do anything to get back as soon and strong as possible.

"For now I’ll be supporting our team from the stands of course. Thanks for making me feel at home in such a short period of time, see you at The Carpet."

As a result, the Gunners are now back in the market in search for extra defensive cover.

According to 90Min, Arsenal are in positional to offer Cancelo a way out of City, after he saw his opportunities severely limited after falling down the pecking order at the club.

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It has been claimed that Arsenal have now opened talks to sign the Portuguese international.

However, transfer guru Fabrizio Romano claimed on Friday that Barcelona are the only club Cancelo is in talks with.

The Italian tweeted: "Joao Cancelo to Barça, matter of time. Negotiations are advanced with City — no agreement yet on salary coverage & loan fee but getting closer.

"Joao wants Barça, not negotiating with any other club. Deal will include buy option clause not mandatory.

"Talks ongoing.'

Before falling out of favour, Cancelo was regarded as one of the best full-backs in the Premier League after his £50 million move from Juventus.

Previously, City boss Pep Guardiola labelled Cancelo a special talent.

He said: “He played exceptionally, with the ball and without the ball. He is a special talent.

“Defensively sometimes he needs to be consistent but when he is consistent, his focus is fantastic. He’s a fantastic guy and a football player.”