Jurrien Timber has been linked with a move to Manchester United this summer – a year since Erik ten Hag was left stunned because he rejected the chance to move to Old Trafford
Jurrien Timber has revealed he could leave Ajax this summer – but admitted it must be a club that “fits” amid increased interest from Manchester United.
Timber, 21, was heavily linked with a move to the Red Devils last year following Erik ten Hag’s appointment as United boss. However, the Dutchman decided to stay at Ajax. Instead, Lisandro Martinez made the switch to Old Trafford and he has impressed during his time in Manchester so far.
However, Timber could be on the move this summer and United are amongst the number of clubs who have been tipped to secure his signature. Ajax are set to listen to offers for the Netherlands international, who has just over two years left to run on his contract.
“For me it is the same situation as last season. If I say: I’m leaving, it has to fit,” Timber said to Ziggy Sport, quoted by Voetbal Primeur. ” Playing style is important, playing minutes… Participating in the prizes is also important. My favourite country? I dare not say that.
“That’s why I’m doing the same as last season. The chance is there, it can happen, but I’m also good here. I’m still young and everything suits me here. I’m going to take a look.”
This comes a year after, as Mirror Football exclusively revealed back in June, Ten Hag was left ‘stunned’ that Timber rejected the chance to join United. He told the Red Devils boss that he would not be moving to Manchester before the World Cup in Qatar.
Jurrien Timber could leave Ajax this summer ( Image: Getty Images)
But the tables could be turned this summer. Ajax have conceded that he is likely to leave and have set a price tag of £44million as a result. So far, no concrete offers have been received, though Timber himself is said to want to join a ‘top club’. One team that could be interested is United, with boss Erik ten Hag having worked with the defender during his spell as Ajax manager.
Speaking earlier this month, Timber told Dutch outlet De Telegraaf : “A transfer is getting closer and closer, so to speak. There is a lot of concrete interest and I have made agreements with Ajax. Last year Ajax asked me to stay for at least one more season and to extend my contract.
“As a club boy, I did that with love and after the season we will review the situation. At the Dutch national team, I often talk to boys who play football abroad. I want to take that step someday. But when that is, you will eventually hear and it will happen in consultation with Ajax. I’m still here anyway and I’m in no hurry. The focus is now on the cup final and the remainder of the competition.”
