Tyrell Malacia looks as though he could be the man to finally end the long wait for a first signing of the Erik ten Hag era at Manchester United.
It’s all systems go with United having agreed a deal in principle with Feyenoord. As well as Malacia’s arrival will be received, the even better news for fans is that it might well open the floodgates.
There’s also a deal on the table for Frenkie de Jong as United look to bring an end to that long saga, and with that deal out of the way, attentions can turn towards some of Ten Hag’s other targets. Antony and Christian Eriksen remain on the shopping list and are still very much within reach.
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One player who looks as though he might have his name crossed off said list is Jurrien Timber. Reports have suggested the defender is leaning towards staying at Ajax next season, despite having been identified as Ten Hag’s defensive priority.
Louis van Gaal’s stern warning is no doubt ringing in his ears. The former United boss, who isn’t shy of chucking the odd grenade at his old club, put some doubt over a potential move to Old Trafford for Timber when he suggested it could harm his chances of making his World Cup squad later this year.
"I think a player with his qualities can play in the Premier League. 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,” Van Gaal said.
Malacia, on the other hand, doesn’t seem anywhere near as concerned as he prepares to make the move to Old Trafford. That’s despite the 22-year-old arguably facing a tougher task at his new club.
Out of all the positions at United, left-back would likely have been pretty low down on the list of priorities for most supporters. While Luke Shaw is in need of some more quality competition, there wouldn’t have been too many complaining had United gone into the new season with Alex Telles still acting as back-up.
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Even with Malacia’s arrival seemingly pushing Telles and Brandon Williams out of the picture, the Feyenoord ace still has a job on his hands to displace Shaw next season. The England international is still recognised by United as their first choice, and it will be up to Malacia to depose him.
Timber, on the other hand, might well have found a place in United’s side easier to come by. Given the season United have just had, the 21-year-old would certainly have been considered for a place at the heart of the defence.
Even if his primary position wasn’t necessarily up for grabs, he would have stood more than a fighting chance at right-back. Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Diogo Dalot certainly didn’t do enough to guarantee themselves a place in Ten Hag’s side next season, and Timber’s ability to fill the position was one of the main reasons United were after him.
You can certainly understand Timber’s reasoning for staying at Ajax if Van Gaal has had a big say in his decision. But Malacia’s arrival arguably sends a bigger message to the Netherlands boss.
The left-back isn’t worried about having to fight for his place, whether it’s at United or for the World Cup. There’s still time for Timber to take a similar approach.
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