Manchester United have not been put off signing Jurrien Timber despite Ajax demanding a £36million fee to let the 20-year-old leave.
Erik ten Hag is already going about business as the new United boss, and he's turning to his former side as he looks to bring in reinforcements. The Dutchman is already targeting his old midfielder Frenkie De Jong, and he's hoping to raid Ajax for Timber.
But Ajax have slapped a high price-tag on Timber amid the ongoing United interest, although this hasn't deterred them. But their issue may be that the defender is leaning towards staying at Ajax, according to De Telegraaf.
On Wednesday, Timber hinted that he could continue his development away from Ajax, which perked the interest of many United fans. However, he did explain that it had to be the 'right move' for him to consider it.
And under Ten Hag, there's no reason why it shouldn't be as the Dutchman knows him well. But De Telegraarf have reported that Ajax sources confirm that they are 'getting more and more signals' that Timber wants to stay in the Netherlands.
The report states that this could have been influenced by new manager Alfred Schreuder, and the possibility of getting a new deal may have convinced him to stay. Ajax want to meet his agents soon’ to talk about extending his deal and also increasing his wages.
The Dutchman’s contract currently expires in 2024, but Ajax may look to extend that further, which may also increase his price-tag. This has already been set at £36m, which is 'considerable' for United.
Timber wants to be assured playing time, especially with a World Cup coming up at the end of the year. And the 20-year-old has nailed down a starting role at Ajax already.
United may be looking to sell Eric Bailly this summer, but with Harry Maguire and Raphael Varane at the club. Timber won't be guaranteed to start. These are one of the 'major factors' that is stopping the deal from progressing.
To add to the mix, Ajax are keen on signing Timber's brother that current plays for FC Utrecht, meaning that they could link up at the Dutch champions. There is a lot of work to be done for Ten Hag, and this potential blow won't help things.
And United's defence is an area that needs urgent attention, after they recorded their worst ever Premier League finish last season. They also finished the season without s positive goal difference, which is unheard of for the Red Devils.
Ten Hag also needs midfield options, as he looks to complete a total overhaul of the squad. And Paul Pogba, Jesse Lingard, Juan Mata and Nemanja Matic have all left this summer.
