Manchester United have reportedly initiated discussions with Ajax over the signing of Jurrien Timber this summer.
According to a report from The Guardian, Manchester United have kick-started their efforts to sign Jurrien Timber. The Premier League giants have initiated discussions with Ajax surrounding the transfer of their prized defensive asset, with the player himself keen on moving to Old Trafford in the summer.
Erik ten Hag wants to make Timber his first signing as the Manchester United head coach. The Dutchman rates the defender highly after giving him his professional breakthrough at Ajax and playing a key role in his rapid rise to prominence over the past couple of years.
Ten Hag has identified several weak points for Manchester United ahead of the new season. One of them is the central defensive unit, especially with club captain Harry Maguire struggling for form. The other alternative Victor Lindelof has not had a great time either, while Eric Bailly and Phil Jones could soon leave the club in the summer.
It effectively leaves Manchester United with Raphael Varane as the only reliable defensive option. The Frenchman himself, though, is far from dependable due to his poor record with injuries. And with that in mind, Erik ten Hag is ready to bring in a quality centre-back this summer.
The Dutch tactician has kept close tabs on Villarreal starlet Pau Torres. But one would expect the Manchester United boss to favour a move for Timber. The youngster might not offer loads of experience at the highest level of football, but ten Hag knows the player well and the skillset he offers at the heart of the backline.
Timber’s athleticism, pace and ability to operate as a fullback could prove to be invaluable for Manchester United in the new season. Luring him from Ajax, though, could be a difficult ask despite ten Hag’s strong rapport with the player. Nonetheless, Manchester United and Ajax are locked in discussions over Timber, who has a €50 million price tag.
Also Read: Manchester United Season Review: What went wrong for the Red Devils in the 2021/22 season?
The report suggests Ajax have tabled a new deal to Timber, in an attempt to keep him at the club for at least another season. Even if the defender rejects the offer, Manchester United may have to reach deep in their pockets and pay €50 million to sign Timber, who is only 20 and has two years left on his current contract in Amsterdam.
