Jurrien Timber insists Louis van Gaal did not put him off joining Manchester United and that he actually backed him to play regularly had he moved.
Erik ten Hag was keen to bring the 21-year-old to Old Trafford due to his ability to operate at both centre-back as well as right-back, but they would end the window having strengthened centrally and at left-back.
United had identified Timber as their priority defensive addition this summer, but soon turned their attention to Ajax teammate Lisandro Martinez after he opted to stay with the Dutch champions.
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In the wake of their failed pursuit, reports suggested that Timber had turned down a move to United because Dutch national team coach Van Gaal had warned him that doing so could risk his place in the World Cup squad later this year.
Speaking at a press conference in May, former United manager Van Gaal warned: "I think a player of his quality can play in the Premier League. That is not a problem. If he has to make this big step now, that's the question. It is not so wise I think (to move to United). He has to play.”
Van Gaal certainly appeared sceptical of Timber moving to United at such a young age, but the young defender insists his international boss was fully in support of him doing what he wanted this summer.
"Many things that are written in the media are false," he told Dutch outlet AD. "Like when people say that it was Louis van Gaal who told me not to go to Manchester United. He actually said I would make minutes there."
Timber signed an improved contract with Dutch giants Ajax last month, keeping him at the club until the summer of 2025.
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