Pranav Nair
Ajax sensation Jurrien Timber plays down Manchester United transfer links
According to Het Parool (h/t The Metro), Ajax Amsterdam star Jurrien Timber has opened up on being linked with a move to Manchester United.
The 20-year-old is one of Ajax’s top performers and is an exciting talent to keep an eye out for in the coming years. Already a first-team regular for the Dutch giants, his performances have attracted attention from some of Europe’s top sides.
Erik ten Hag certainly has a good opinion of Timber and has often played him whenever fit in recent months. With the Dutch manager set to take over Manchester United in the summer, it is natural that Timber too has been linked with a move to Old Trafford.
The youngster has now opened up on the interest, playing it down and stating that he is happy at Ajax. He also went on to add that he is keen to experience Champions League football, something Ajax will surely do so next season if their league standings stay the same.
“I’m good at Ajax. I can still learn a lot, especially if we continue to play in the Champions League.”
Timber’s statement is also a slap on the face of Man United who look increasingly unlikely to qualify for Europe’s top competition next season. Having made the statement, it makes little sense for Timber to move to Old Trafford only to watch the team he left continue to play in the Champions League.
A centre-back, Timber is a versatile defender who is also capable of playing anywhere along the backline. Replacing Matthijs de Ligt in the Ajax defence was no easy task, but the youngster has done a commendable job to his credit. A physical presence at the back, the 20-year-old is not just a smart tackler but also technically proficient.
Manchester United have four experienced centre backs in Harry Maguire, Raphael Varane, Victor Lindelof and Eric Bailly. The quartet has, however, failed to fulfil its primary purpose and changes might be needed in the summer. Timber still has much to learn but he could be a long-term asset for the Red Devils should he make the move.
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Especially given how Bailly has been relegated to the sidelines in recent weeks and Maguire’s poor run of form, it is important that United and ten Hag look to solidify the defence this summer. If not Timber, then someone who can lead this Man United backline would be a welcome addition before the next transfer window closes.
