Manchester United’s interest in Ajax defender Jurrien Timber is “serious and concrete” according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.
What’s the word?
United are seriously interested in reuniting Timber with his former manager Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford, although Romano has stressed that any deal is still at an early stage.
His name has been discussed internally at The Theatre of Dreams alongside highly rated Villarreal defender Paul Torres, as the club look to strengthen their defensive options.
The Red Devils ended the Premier League season in sixth place, and with a final goal difference of zero, their task is to make sure they concede less next season.
In full, the reporter said: “Manchester United interest in Jurrien Timber is concrete and serious, deal now still at early stages with Ajax. Timber name has been discussed internally with ten Hag alongside Pau Torres. Ajax have also offered Timber a new short term deal, in case he doesn’t leave.”
Supporters will be buzzing
As always with United, many names have been linked with the club heading into the summer, but with the arrival of Ten Hag, it’s no surprise that the club are interested in players from his former employers.
The Dutch manager had a lot of success in Amsterdam, with their squad containing several talented players with high potential. If Timber moves to England then it’s Ten Hag who will be able to get the best out of him.
He’s come through a famed academy that has produced recent stars such as Frenkie de Jong and Matthijs de Ligt.
Should Manchester United sign Timber?
Timber ranks in the top 2% for percentage of dribblers tackled, when compared to positional peers in Europe’s top five leagues over the past year.
However, it’s on the ball where he really impresses, ranking in the top 3% for progressive carries which proves that he is composed when playing out from the back.
As a result, he would massively improve United’s defence which has come under constant criticism this season with the likes of Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof underperforming.
44 of his tackles this term have resulted in his team winning back possession of the ball, which can prove vital in any game, that’s higher than all three of United’s defenders in the same period.
At just 20-years-old he can revolutionise their backline and be at the heart of Ten Hag’s spine, thus leaving supporters elated and overjoyed in the process.
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