Bayern Munich have entered the race to sign Jurrien Timber, although Manchester United remain favourites to sign the Ajax defender.
According to Sky Sports journalist Florian Plettenberg, Bayern Munich have made an enquiry about Jurrien Timber, exploring the possibility of a potential swoop at the end of the season. It appears coach Julian Nagelsmann is keen on shoring up his defensive options next season, but his team could face stiff competition from Manchester United.
The Premier League giants are the undisputed favourite to sign Timber this summer. The youngster has a good relationship with Ajax coach Erik ten Hag, who is set to become United’s head coach next season. Their connection could play a key role in convincing the youngster to opt for a move to England.
Timber has been one of the rising stars in Dutch football in recent years. He has even emerged as the next big defensive talent at Ajax after Matthijs de Ligt, having become a mainstay in the backline alongside Lisandro Martinez, who has also become a wanted figure in the market amid interest from FC Barcelona.
Many believe Timber has a higher ceiling than Martinez due to his athleticism, pace and ability to read the game. The 20-year-old youngster is extremely mature for his age too and has featured in 74 competitive appearances for Ajax while winning six caps for the Dutch national team.
Bayern Munich’s interest in Timber stems from the departure of Niklas Sule. The German international has agreed to join rivals Borussia Dortmund at the end of the season. Coach Nagelsmann is also not convinced with the performances of last summer’s marquee signing Dayot Upamecano.
It has prompted the Bayern coach to search for a new defender in the summer. Jurrien Timber fits the bill well for the Bavarians given his young age and limitless potential. But with Manchester United emerging as the firm favourites to secure his deal, Bayern may have to look at other defensive targets such as Tottenham-linked Stefan de Vrij.
At Old Trafford, Timber is likely to serve as a direct replacement for Eric Bailly and Phil Jones, both of who are expected to depart. The youngster is set to compete with Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof for a place in the starting eleven, and with the player having a good relationship with ten Hag, he may even emerge as the regular defensive partner for Raphael Varane next season.