Manchester United are yet to make a concrete move to sign Ajax defender Jurrien Timber in the summer transfer window, confirms Fabrizio Romano. The 21-year-old “defensive prodigy” will reportedly consider his future at Ajax in the summer, which could see the Red Devils renew their interest from last summer as they look to continue bolstering their defensive options.
Erik ten Hag is apparently a “big fan” of his former player but ultimately decided to sign Lisandro Martinez from the Dutch side once it became clear that the Timber was remaining in the Netherlands. The United manager could look to renew his interest this summer but so far it looks like there has been no movement made from the Manchester club.
Manchester United Yet to Make Progress in Jurrien Timber Pursuit
Jurrien Timber on his future: “Transfer? You never know what crosses your path. This summer I will look at my options and make a decision”. 🇳🇱 #Ajax
“I feel good at Ajax, that's important for now. Last summer there was interest, but I chose to stay at Ajax”, says via @ajaxlife. pic.twitter.com/X83mb3l1pj
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 7, 2023
Ajax to Make Decision on Timber at End of the Season
Timber performed really well for The Netherlands at the Qatar World Cup and was one of his country’s best performers. The 21-year-old centre-back signed a new contract with Ajax last summer, which will see the Netherlands international at his club until the summer of 2025.
Read More: Manchester United to Face Stiff Competition in Jude Bellingham Transfer War in the Summer
However, reports suggest that Timber could be looking to revisit his future at Ajax in the summer and his former manager remains an admirer. Romano wrote for CaughtOffside: “Erik ten Hag is always been big fan of Jurrien Timber but there’s nothing new or concrete at this stage. Ajax don’t even want to speak to clubs about Timber now, so it will be something to see in June – for sure, Timber signed a short contract last year because his dream remains to join another top European club in the future.”
Timber Could Add More Steel to United’s Backline
The Red Devils have had a relatively solid defensive record for the majority of this season – with the arrivals of Martinez and Brazilian defensive midfielder Casemiro improving their defence. However, they’ve also suffered some embarrassing losses – including the 7-0 thrashing at the hands of Liverpool.
Read More: What Erik Ten Hag Made Manchester United Squad Do After Liverpool Thrashing
That is why they could opt to sign another centre-back next season, especially if Harry Maguire wants to pursue a move in search of more playing time. The 21-year-old can play as an alternative to Raphael Varane and already has an understanding with Martinez – with the pair playing together at Ajax. He can help add more depth to United’s backline and form a partnership with Lisandro that can last a long time at Old Trafford too. Timber has been really impressive in recent years and Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk praised him for his high potential and claimed he’s better at the age of 21 than he was earlier in his career.
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