Dutch hero Ruud Gullit has already sent a warning to Man United over the signing of Jurrien Timber, with the Red Devils aiming to complete a deal for the Ajax star.
The defender has been linked with a switch to Old Trafford over recent weeks following the arrival of Erik ten Hag. The Dutchman is targeting his compatriot ahead of the summer transfer window as he aims to bolster United’s leaky defence. Timber, rated at £35m by Ajax, already has a glowing reference from the incoming United boss ahead of a potential switch. He said: “I think all top clubs have Timber in their sights."
Despite his view on the 20-year-old, compatriot Gullit has already been left concerned over a potential switch to England, having hinted that the six-time Dutch international could struggle with the physical nature of the Premier League. Speaking with Ajax Showtime, he said: “I think Timber is a very good player, but whether he can be a defender in England.
“You also play against Burnley and West Brom. The top seven strikers are all world-beaters. I think he is a very good footballer, but I have my doubts about whether he is a good defender.”
Whether Ten Hag or United take on board Gullit’s previous thoughts remains to be seen but it is certainly fair to say that the young defender has enjoyed a meteoric rise in the Dutch capital over the past couple of seasons. He only made his debut during the 2019/20 season but has now gone on to accumulate over 70 appearances for the club and playing a key role in consecutive Eredivisie title successes, whilst also being rewarded with recognition on the international stage.
Whilst the Red Devils are aiming to seal Timber’s signature, they have also been linked to a number of his current Ajax teammates. Brazilian winger Antony has been linked with a switch to Old Trafford, whilst The Telegraph have suggested that Timber’s defensive colleague Lisandro Martinez has been added to the club’s transfer shortlist ahead of the summer window opening.
Would Jurrien Timber be a good signing for Man Utd? Have your say in the comments section.
Former Man United midfielder Daley Blind though has sent a message to his ex-employers, by warning that the Dutch giants will not be forced to sell any of their key players unless their asking prices are met.
Speaking with Andy van der Meijde, he said: “A few players are already leaving on a free transfer, so I don’t think Ajax will let players go that easily. You have to have a team next year that will compete again in the Champions League and for the title.
“If the main price is paid for Haller or Antony, then Ajax will accept it, but I don’t think Ajax wants to sell many players. I hope most of them just stay.” Timber is currently under contract until the summer of 2024, whilst Antony’s deal is set to run for a further year until 2025.
