Quinten Timber, twin brother of Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber, has agreed to join Crystal Palace, according to reports. The midfielder's move, however, is far from complete, with the two clubs yet to agree on a fee.
Move to Marseille and forced sale
The 25-year-old only signed for Marseille in January, but the French club's financial troubles are forcing them to sell many of their key players this summer. Among their notable departures are former Arsenal and Chelsea striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and ex-Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood.
Manager Bruno Genesio is keen to keep Timber, but Foot Mercato report he could be the next to leave. L'Equipe reported earlier this week that Timber's price tag was around €19million (£16.2m), with Marseille set to make a quick profit, having spent only £3.8m on the Dutchman eight months ago.
Timber's career and Palace's need
Timber has won the Eredivisie title and Dutch Cup with Feyenoord and represented the Netherlands at this summer's World Cup, though his twin brother Jurrien missed out due to injury. Since Jurrien's big-money move to the Emirates three years ago, Quinten has been tipped to follow in his footsteps and play in England's top flight.
Palace have been in the market for a new central midfielder, with a bid for Monaco star Lamine Camara rejected earlier this summer. The Eagles have endured a tough start to the season under new manager Pierre Sage, losing their opening two matches to Everton and Manchester City by a combined score of 1-6.
Further departures and potential derby
Palace are also set to lose star defender Daniel Munoz to Nottingham Forest for £25m, and reports suggest key forwards Jean-Philippe Mateta and Ismaila Sarr want to leave before Tuesday's deadline.
Should the transfer happen, the Timber family will have to wait for their derby, with Palace next set to play Arsenal on Boxing Day at Selhurst Park.
