Manchester United are still interested in Jurrien Timber, and Erik ten Hag could make a fresh approach for the Dutch defender.
According to 90min, Jurrien Timber features on Manchester United’s shortlist, with Erik ten Hag keen on a reunion. The Red Devils wanted the Dutch defender on priority last summer. But a move might materialise in the next window as the chase revives.
Erik ten Hag clearly came up with ideas when he joined Manchester United last summer. The Dutch manager wanted to sign players that he felt would improve the squad as he eyed changes to the team after a sixth-placed finish in the previous season.
Ten Hag has largely secured most of his top targets. Those included Tyrell Malacia, Lisandro Martinez and Antony. The arrivals of Christian Eriksen and Casemiro sorted their troubled midfield options. But the manager did miss out on a priority star in Jurrien Timber.
Timber was a key target for ten Hag, who may have wanted him before signing Martinez. Media reports suggested Netherlands manager Louis van Gaal asked the Dutch defender to stay put and continue playing regularly for Ajax before the World Cup.
Hence, a move from Amsterdam never materialised for Timber, although his stance could change next summer. The Dutch defender wants to test himself in a bigger league and join a top club. Manchester United have retained an interest in the 21-year-old, as ten Hag views his talents as a big option for the club.
Manchester United could sign a top central defender in the summer as the future of some of their existing stars has come under review. Victor Lindelof could be one of the centre-backs departing in the summer alongside Harry Maguire.
Manchester United could offload Maguire if they receive a suitable offer from interested clubs. West Ham United are credited with a move. But things could get complicated in pursuit of the England international. Ten Hag wants a versatile star to join his ranks, with Timber seen as the ideal candidate.
The Dutch defender has reportedly asked his representatives to explore a big summer move. Timber supposedly has a market value of €45 million, although Ajax may ask for a price similar to what Manchester United paid for Martinez.
Timber could play centrally or as a right-back, having had experience playing both those positions. It will be particularly valuable to ten Hag, who may sell Aaron Wan-Bissaka in the next window. For now, the links to the Dutch defender are not concrete. But things could change in the coming period, as Ten Hag likes the idea of his former player.
