Netherlands manager Louis van Gaal has advised Manchester United target Jurrien Timber to stay at Ajax this summer, but believes the youngster has the credentials to play in the Premier League.
Timber, who can operate at both right-back and centre-back, is on United's radar ahead of the transfer window officially opening for business on Friday. United manager Erik ten Hag is understood to be keen on reuniting with the 20-year-old, who is among his leading targets.
United, who will discover their 2022/23 Premier League fixtures next week, are keen to strengthen their defence and Timber is a player that fits the profile of defender they are looking for. He was excellent for Ajax this season, racking up 43 appearances in all competitions, as they clinched their latest Eredivisie league title.
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A growing number of United supporters are keen to see Timber become one of Ten Hag's first signings, believing that their relationship at Ajax could be strengthened at Old Trafford. However, Timber's international manager Van Gaal believes he might be best served staying put to strengthen his chances of making the Netherlands' World Cup squad later this year.
"I think a player with his qualities can play in the Premier League," said Van Gaal, speaking ahead of the Netherlands' clash with Wales on Wednesday night. "That’s not a problem. But if he has to make this step now... that's another question. It is not so wise I think [to join United]. He has to play."
Timber, who turns 21 this month, is considered one of the hottest prospects in Dutch football. Last week, he admitted that he would make a decision on his future once he's been on holiday after the ongoing run of international fixtures.
"In the end, my gut feeling will be the deciding factor," Timber told De Telegraaf. "The picture has to be right. You can go to a big club. But if you're not going to play there it's better to stay with Ajax. And Ajax is also a big club.
"We play football in the Champions League and I play there together with the best players in the Netherlands. That is not nothing. Of course, I can develop further [at Ajax]. I am 100 per cent sure of that. I don't feel like I'm done at the club. But I can also develop at other clubs. I am now focusing on the upcoming international matches and then go on holiday. Then I'll have to think about it some more."
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