Arsenal seeks defensive reinforcements as Saliba and Timber are sidelined
The Guardian Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 10, 2026, 9:48 AM
Last updated Aug 10, 2026
Arsenal is intensifying its efforts to acquire defensive cover after Mikel Arteta confirmed that Jurriën Timber remains weeks away from returning due to injury. William Saliba is expected to be out for an extended period following a back injury sustained during the World Cup. Arsenal lost to Borussia Dortmund 3-2 in a recent friendly, showcasing defensive vulnerabilities. Arteta emphasized the need for existing players to elevate their performance while the club seeks new signings. An additional bid for player Ezri Konsa is anticipated.
- •Arteta says Timber is weeks away from competitive action.
- •Saliba faces an extended recovery from a back injury.
- •Arsenal lost to Borussia Dortmund 3-2 in a recent friendly.
- •Arteta calls on current players to improve their contributions.
- •A fresh bid for Konsa is expected as Arsenal seeks reinforcements.
- 9:48 AMThe Guardian Sport — Arsenal step up push for defensive cover with Timber and Saliba sidelined
"Gunners expected to return with fresh bid for Konsa Arteta says existing players need to step up for now Arsenal are stepping up their efforts to sign defensive cover for William Saliba after Mikel Arteta revealed that Jurriën Timber is still “weeks away” from returning to competitive action. Saliba is set to be sidelined for an extended period after breaking down during the World Cup with a back injury that has been affecting him since last season. After seeing Arsenal lose a second successive friendly as Borussia Dortmund won 3-2 on Sunday to lift the Emirates Cup in a performance that featured several defensive mistakes, Arteta would not be drawn on when the France defender is expected to return but admitted that it would take “some time to heal”. Continue reading...
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