Manchester United target Jurrien Timber has been spotted at Wembley ahead of the FA Cup final.
The Dutch international watched on as the Red Devils take on Manchester City amid continued links over a move to Old Trafford. Speculation suggested Timber was one of Erik ten Hag's main targets but a summer switch failed to materialise and he remains at Ajax.
United could return in the coming months as they look to bolster their options and Timber's presence at Wembley will only lead to increased speculation. The player remains open to a move away from Amsterdam, but equally is content at staying with his main objective being regular minutes.
He has told Dutch publication Ziggo Sport: “It’s the same situation for me as last season. When I say I’m leaving, it has to fit. Important is the style of play and playing minutes. Competing for prizes is also important. My favourite country? I dare not say.
“That’s why I’m doing the same as last season. The chance is there, it can happen, but I’m also comfortable here. I’m still young and here everything also suits me. I’m going to watch quietly.”
Louis van Gaal, who was axed in Manchester after two years, had been in charge of the Netherlands and seemed to try and dissuade Timber against a move to Old Trafford. He maintained that the player needed regular minutes if he wanted to keep developing and further his international ambitions - which he wasn't sure he could get at United.
He said at the time: "I think a player of his quality can play in the Premier League. That is not a problem. If he has to make this big step now, that’s the question. It is not so wise I think [to move to United]. He has to play.”
Timber has since maintained that Van Gaal never talked him out of a move to Manchester with it once again an option. Ten Hag has been willing to utilise the Dutch market, already adding two players whom he worked with previously at Ajax. Lisandro Martinez has come in and been a huge success.
Despite his lack of height the Argentine has formed an impressive partnership with Raphael Varane, which could leave Timber searching for minutes. Antony is the other man to come in from Ajax, for a hefty fee, but has struggled to make an impact at Old Trafford.
Ten Hag is set to reshuffle their central defensive options with several men potentially leaving. Harry Maguire could be moved on whilst Phil Jones' departure has already been announced. Eric Bailly too could follow.
