Manchester United might renew their interest in Ajax defender Jurrien Timber who was heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford last summer.
As reported by the Sun, Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag instructed the scouting team to keep a stern watch on Ajax youngster Jurrien Timber. The Netherlands international was on the verge of completing a switch to the Premier League.
Ten Hag decided to bring in Timber’s former partner Lisandro Martinez from Ajax last summer and the Argentine has had a considerable impact so far partnering Raphael Varane in the heart of the United backline.
Timber seemingly got advice from former United and current Dutch manager Louis van Gaal to turn down a move to United as it could affect his chances to get a call-up to Netherlands’ World Cup squad.
His flexibility to slot in anywhere in the defensive setup has made him a household name and ten Hag is keeping a close eye on the player. The 21-year-old went on to sign an extension since his links with United but the lure of the Premier League would be too hard to reject.
United’s current defensive line is quite extensive but Harry Maguire’s uncertain future could leave a bad patch on United’s season. The Red Devils captain has fallen in the pecking order and has had very limited game time.
He could be sold in the summer while Varane’s injury concerns remain a worry. So an additional defender will always be welcome and Timber’s defensive flexibility would be a bonus if he does arrive on English soil.
He could follow the suit of Cody Gakpo and Tyrell Malacia who moved to the English top flight. Ajax already sold both Martinez and Antony to Manchester United and Timber could be the third player to join them but he wouldn’t come cheap.
Eredivisie has played a big role in shaping the career of ten Hag and he wants to add to that the same by bringing in players from the Dutch top flight as long as he can.
