Bayer Leverkusen see first Quinten Timber bid rejected by Feyenoord after midfielder loses captaincy over contract standoff

According to Voetbal International, the Eredivisie giants were left 'unimpressed' by Erik ten Hag-led Leverkusen's opening bid for Timber. The Dutch midfielder has just one year left on his current deal, which runs until 2026, and has refused to sign an extension. That decision already cost him the captain’s armband, which was handed to new signing Sem Steijn. 

Timber joined Feyenoord in 2022 and has made 105 appearances for the club, scoring 18 goals and providing 13 assists. Last season, however, he struggled with a torn lateral knee ligament, missing the entire second half of the campaign. He still managed 26 matches with six goals and one assist before the injury.

With only a year left on his deal, Feyenoord risk losing him on a free transfer next summer. That could force them to sell now, even if the first offer from Leverkusen was dismissed. Meanwhile, the German club are eager to land the 24-year-old and will continue talks with Feyenoord.

West Ham have also shown interest in Timber, the twin brother of Arsenal defender Jurrien. Manager Graham Potter is desperate to strengthen his midfield after a disastrous start that saw the Hammers concede eight goals in their first two games. The Premier League club are keeping Quinten firmly on their radar as the transfer window nears its close.

Leverkusen are closing in on signing Equi Fernandez from Al-Qadsiah in Saudi Arabia. Bringing in Timber alongside the Argentine could pave the way for Aleix Garcia to leave Leverkusen for West Ham.