Erik ten Hag could only laugh and offer a wry smile after an interviewer begged him not to take Jurrien Timber to Manchester United.
The 52-year-old will take charge of United on Monday as Ralf Rangnick vacates his role as interim head coach to undertake a consultancy role at Old Trafford. Following United's dismal Premier League campaign, a squad overhaul is on the horizon.
A whole host of Ajax players have been tipped to follow Ten Hag to United. Timber's fine performances this season have seen him linked with a move away, with recent reports suggesting he could be targeted by his former boss.
READ MORE: Manchester United manager Ralf Rangnick opens up on Erik ten Hag chat
United are keen to bolster their defensive options this summer, with Villarreal centre-back Pau Torres having already been linked with a move to Old Trafford. Ten Hag was recently asked about Timber's qualities, and he was full of praise for the youngster.
"At the bottom, there's a photo of Jurrien Timber, he's another great leader that was trained at Ajax," he said. "Besides his football skills, he has the personality to become a captain." The interviewer then begged: "Please don't take him with you," to which Ten Hag laughed.
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