Man Utd transfer blow with Jurrien Timber ‘reluctant to join Erik ten Hag from Ajax over move risk in World Cup year’
Sponsored by
MANCHESTER UNITED target Jurrien Timber has reportedly hinted he will stay at Ajax.
It is another transfer blow for new boss Erik ten Hag, who worked with the star at Ajax, as he considered Timber as a key option this summer.
The pair worked together at Ajax to win the Eredivisie title last season.
But now reports from Dutch journalist Mike Verweij claim that the defender, 21, has decided it is too risky to move to Old Trafford.
With the World Cup in November, moving to the Premier League would be too much of a shake-up for him "at this time".
Timber is inclined to stay in Amsterdam, where he is assured of playing time.
READ MORE MAN UTD STORIES
The Netherlands international will go on holiday this week to make a final decision on his future but is "leaning heavily" towards staying put.
Timber's representatives fuelled speculation that a transfer was on the horizon last month when they posted a clip at an airport with the caption "deal closing time".
It has even been said that United are "on the brink" of landing the youngster.
Dutch gaffer Ten Hag is desperate to bring in a new centre-back to partner Raphael Varane with Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof struggling.
Most read in Football
FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS - BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
Timber can play as a central defender and right-back, which would solve additional issues for Ten Hag.
News of Timber's reluctance is a further disappointment for United supporters, after Gary Neville admitted that failure to make a signing so far this window is "worrying" him.
The Red Devils released six first-team players this summer but are yet to confirm a new arrival under Ten Hag.
Additions are needed, and while the club remain locked in talks over a move for Frenkie de Jong, the lack of business is becoming a concern for Neville.
The club legend wrote on his Twitter account: "I know early in the window but it’s worrying that United are struggling to get business done.
"The others seem set and ready yet United can’t get moving. Erik ten Hag needs his group together asap to mould them.
"Bringing them in late will only make it harder for him! Fingers crossed it happens soon!"