Manchester United is expected to make several signings in the upcoming summer transfer window, but it remains unclear whether manager Erik Ten Hag will receive a significant budget.
Due to the continued ownership of the Glazer family, Ten Hag might have to rely on player sales to fund new signings, and there is also the possibility of negotiating part-exchange deals for desired players.
One player who could potentially be sold is Donny van de Beek. The Dutch international is currently recovering from knee surgery and could be fit for the pre-season.
As reported by the Manchester Evening News, Van de Beek could be used as part of a deal to sign Jurrien Timber from Ajax. Timber was a priority target for the manager last year, but the 21-year-old was reluctant to leave Ajax as he feared it would impact his chances of making the Netherlands’ World Cup squad.
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However, the defender recently confirmed his departure from Ajax, and it wouldn’t be surprising if United became one of the main contenders for his signature due to the strong connection with Ten Hag.
The Dutch boss played a crucial role in Timber’s development during their time together at Ajax, making a reunion with his former coach an appealing prospect for the young defender.
Ajax currently values Timber at €50 million, but the Red Devils could potentially lower the price by offering the opportunity to re-sign Van de Beek.
Although the midfielder has struggled to make an impact at United, he enjoyed great success at Ajax with impressive goals and assist statistics. At 26 years old, he is still in his prime, and Ajax might be enticed by United’s proposal.
Considering our interest in signing Adrien Rabiot on a free transfer, the competition in midfield is expected to increase. This further suggests that Van de Beek is unlikely to become a regular starter.
Therefore, a swap deal with Ajax appears to make sense. Timber would be a smart signing for United, as he is versatile enough to play as a central defender or right-back.
Timber previously formed a successful partnership with Lisandro Martinez at Ajax, and the prospect of reuniting them in United’s defence, particularly given Raphael Varane’s injury history, could be an appealing long-term option.
