Manchester United-linked Jurrien Timber opens door to summer move

Ajax defender Jurrien Timber has hinted that he would be open to a summer departure amid links with Manchester United.

After Erik ten Hag was appointed Man United manager last summer, two members of his Ajax squad swiftly followed him to Old Trafford.

Lisandro Martinez and Antony both completed moves from the reigning Dutch champions, while Man United were also interested in signing Timber.

However, Timber reportedly turned down the opportunity to join the 20-time English champions, remaining with Ajax, who have endured a tumultuous season.

Ten Hag's successor Alfred Schreuder was sacked in January following a poor run of results, leaving Ajax to play catch-up in the title race.

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The Dutch club have turned their fortunes around under interim boss John Heitinga, recording six consecutive league victories, which leaves them in second place in the Eredivisie table - three points behind league leaders Feyenoord.

Timber has been a regular feature in the Ajax side this season, starting all 35 of his competitive appearances, contributing one goal and two assists.

With Harry Maguire potentially leaving Old Trafford in the summer, Man United have supposedly maintained their interest in Timber, who has now opened the door to a summer departure.

As quoted by Ajax Life, Timber said: "Transfer? You never know what crosses your path. This summer I will look at my options and make a decision.

"I feel good at Ajax, that's important for now. Last summer there was interest, but I chose to stay at Ajax."

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During Ten Hag's tenure, Timber won two league titles and the Dutch Cup, while he also won both the Eredivisie Player of the Year and Talent of the Year awards for the 2021-22 season.

With Timber under contract until June 2025, Ajax will be in a strong negotiating position should Man United make an offer in the summer.

Timber, who has been to Euro 2020 and the 2022 World Cup with the Netherlands, has made 109 appearances since joining Ajax in the summer of 2020, chipping in with five goals and four assists.

Man United, meanwhile, are preparing to face Real Betis in the Europa League on Thursday as they look to bounce back from Sunday's heavy 7-0 defeat to local rivals Liverpool.