In a significant blow to their January transfer plans, Premier League clubs Arsenal, West Ham United, and Aston Villa have all missed out on signing Feyenoord midfielder Quinten Timber. The 24-year-old Dutch talent is instead poised to complete a switch to French Ligue 1 side Olympique de Marseille.
Fallout with Van Persie Seals Feyenoord Exit
The move comes after a very public falling out between Timber and Feyenoord's head coach, Arsenal legend Robin van Persie. Timber, who has made 24 appearances across all competitions this season, voiced his frustration after being substituted in a recent 4-3 defeat to Sparta Rotterdam.
"I think it’s a shame what the coach said," Timber stated. "It’s happened a few times now that the coach doesn’t protect the player. You can have an opinion, but say it to my face. This was the limit." The midfielder's comments made an imminent departure from the Eredivisie club inevitable as the January transfer window progresses.
Fabrizio Romano Confirms Marseille Deal
Renowned transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano delivered the definitive update on Monday morning, effectively ending Premier League hopes. Taking to social media platform X, Romano declared: "Olympique Marseille are set to sign Quinten Timber from Feyenoord, here we go soon!"
He confirmed that a verbal agreement is in place with Timber on personal terms, and negotiations between Marseille and Feyenoord over the transfer fee are in their final stages. The deal is expected to be finalised within the next 24 hours.
Premier League Interest Left Unfulfilled
The news represents a missed opportunity for several English top-flight sides who had been closely monitoring the situation. Arsenal had been tracking the progress of Timber for several seasons, not least because he is the brother of current Gunners defender Jurrien Timber.
Meanwhile, West Ham United and Aston Villa were also named as serious suitors this month. The Hammers, in particular, are actively seeking to strengthen their midfield options following the departure of Andy Irving and amid ongoing speculation surrounding Lucas Paqueta's future.
With Timber now destined for the Stade Vélodrome, the Premier League trio must turn their attention to alternative targets before the transfer window slams shut later this month.
