Jurrien Timber is one of the hottest prospects in European football right now. The 20-year-old defender has been a key player for Ajax this season, helping them win the Eredivisie title and reach the quarter-finals of the Europa League.
He has also made his debut for the Netherlands national team, earning praise from manager Frank de Boer.
Source: i2-prod.manchestereveningnews
Timber’s impressive performances have not gone unnoticed by other clubs, especially Manchester United. The Red Devils are reportedly keen on signing the versatile centre-back, who can also play as a right-back or a defensive midfielder.
According to The Sun, United have already contacted Ajax about a possible deal for Timber, who is valued at around £35 million.
However, it seems that Timber has already made up his mind about his future, and it does not involve a move to Old Trafford. According to Dutch outlet De Telegraaf, Timber has agreed to sign a new contract with Ajax until 2025, which will include a significant pay rise and a release clause.
The report claims that Timber is happy at Ajax and wants to continue his development under manager Erik ten Hag, who recently signed a new deal himself.
Timber’s decision will come as a blow to United, who are looking to strengthen their defence this summer. The Red Devils have been linked with several other centre-backs, such as Raphael Varane, Jules Kounde and Pau Torres, but Timber was seen as a cheaper and younger option.
United will now have to look elsewhere for their defensive reinforcements, while Timber will hope to continue his rise at Ajax and cement his place in the Netherlands squad for the 2022 World Cup.
Final Thoughts: Jurrien Timber Commits to Ajax, A Loss for Manchester United
Jurrien Timber’s decision to commit his future to Ajax is a significant blow to Manchester United’s plans to strengthen their defence this summer. The 20-year-old Dutch centre-back has been one of the most sought-after young talents in European football, with a host of top clubs, including United, reportedly interested in signing him.
Timber’s rise to prominence has been nothing short of meteoric. He has established himself as a regular in the Ajax side, helping them win the Eredivisie title and reach the quarter-finals of the Europa League.
He has also made his debut for the Netherlands national team, impressing manager Frank de Boer with his performances.
United saw Timber as a potential solution to their defensive problems, with the youngster’s versatility, technical ability, and composure on the ball making him an attractive target.
With a reported valuation of £35 million, he was seen as a cheaper and younger alternative to more established defenders like Raphael Varane, Jules Kounde, and Pau Torres.
However, Timber’s decision to sign a new contract with Ajax until 2025 puts an end to United’s hopes of signing him. The fact that he has agreed to a significant pay rise and a release clause suggests that he is committed to staying at Ajax for the foreseeable future.
He is happy with the direction the club is heading under manager Erik ten Hag, who himself recently signed a new deal with the club.
For United, it is back to the drawing board. The club’s defensive frailties were once again exposed this season, and manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is keen to address them in the summer transfer window.
The likes of Varane, Kounde, and Torres remain on their radar, but the competition for their signatures will be fierce.
In the meantime, Timber will be looking to build on his impressive performances for Ajax and continue his development as one of the most promising young defenders in Europe.
He will be hoping to play a key role for the club in their quest for more silverware and cement his place in the Netherlands squad for the 2022 World Cup.
Overall, Timber’s decision to commit his future to Ajax is a testament to the club’s ability to nurture and develop young talent. It is also a reminder that not every young player is looking to make a quick move to a bigger club.
For United, it is a reminder that building a successful team takes time, patience, and the right recruitment strategy.
