Arsenal could hijack Man Utd's move for Benjamin Pavard as Fabrizio Romano reveals Jurrien Timber plan

Arsenal could hijack Manchester United's move for Benjamin Pavard, it as been claimed.

The Gunners confirmed on Wednesday that new signing Jurrien Timber faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury.

The Netherlands defender only joined the club from Ajax last month for an initial £34.3million, but limped off on his Premier League debut in Saturday’s 2-1 win over Nottingham Forest following a heavy challenge on Brennan Johnson.

In a statement, Arsenal said on the matter: “Jurrien will undergo surgery in the coming days and will be out of action for a period of time. The support and expertise from our medical team and everyone at the club will now be focussed on Jurrien’s rehabilitation programme, to ensure he recovers well and is back playing as soon as possible.”

Arsenal signed Timber this window, despite United having targeted the defender throughout last summer.

And as an alternative to the Dutchman, Arsenal may look to sign France World Cup winner Pavard, hijacking another of United's targets in the process.

Indeed, writing on X, formally known as Twitter, Fabrizio Romano said: "Benjamin Pavard, one to watch as he’s prepared to leave Bayern now.

"Inter have Pavard on top of the list — proposal expected soon to open talks.

"Man United deal stalling due to Maguire situation. [He] could become option for Arsenal to replace Timber — no decision yet."

United had reportedly identified Pavard as a target and were looking to sign the Bayern Munich defender upon the expected departure of Harry Maguire.

However the England international's proposed move to West Ham collapsed after the club grew tired of waiting for the defender to agree his exit from United.

Maguire had settled personal terms with West Ham but the club had been waiting for the defender to agree a payoff from United.

The 30-year-old received a salary increase as a result of United qualifying for the Champions League and have been on less money at West Ham. As per the Guardian Maguire wants about £7million to leave Old Trafford.

Topics: Football, Transfers, Benjamin Pavard, Manchester United, Arsenal, Premier League

Chris Byfield

Sport journalist with experience writing on football, rugby, boxing and the Olympics. I'm also a Crystal Palace fan. Please don't hold this against me.