Manchester United initiate discussions to land €50 million-rated defender

Manchester United are allegedly in talks with Ajax about signing Jurrien Timber this summer.

According to The Guardian, Manchester United have begun negotiations to sign Jurrien Timber. The Premier League heavyweights have begun talks with Ajax over the transfer of their prized defensive asset, with the player himself keen on joining United in the summer.

Erik ten Hag, the new manager of Manchester United, wants to make Timber his first signing. The Dutchman holds high regard for the defender after giving him his professional debut at Ajax and playing a crucial role in his quick rise to prominence in recent years.

Ten Hag has recognized a number of Manchester United’s weaknesses ahead of the upcoming season. The core defense unit is one of them, especially with club captain Harry Maguire out of form. Victor Lindelof, the club’s other choice, has also struggled, while Eric Bailly and Phil Jones could leave in the summer.

Raphael Varane is effectively Manchester United’s sole reliable defensive option. However, due to his injury history, the Frenchman is far from dependable. With that in mind, Erik ten Hag is prepared to bring in a top-tier center-back this summer.

The Dutch strategist has been keeping a close eye on Villarreal’s Pau Torres. However, one would expect the Manchester United manager to favor a Timber transfer. The teenager may not have much experience at the highest level of football, but ten Hag is familiar with him and the expertise he brings to the backline.

Timber’s athleticism, pace, and ability to play as a fullback might be quite beneficial to Manchester United in the upcoming season. Despite ten Hag’s excellent relationship with the player, luring him away from Ajax could be a challenging task. Nonetheless, Manchester United and Ajax are in talks about Timber, who is valued at €50 million.

According to the source, Ajax has offered Timber a new contract in an attempt to keep him for at least another season. Even if the defender rejects the deal, Manchester United may have to dig deep and spend €50 million to sign Timber, who is only 20 and has two years left on his present contract at Amsterdam.