Ajax ace Jurrien Timber issues update on his future amid Manchester United transfer links

Ajax defender Jurrien Timber has admitted that he is aware that interest in his signature is mounting ahead of the summer transfer window, amid reports linking him with a move to Manchester United.

The defender, who can operate as either a right-back or a centre-back, was United's preferred defensive target ahead of last summer's transfer window officially opening for business. The Netherlands international had excelled under Erik ten Hag at the Johan Cruyff Arena and the latter wanted to be reunited with him at Old Trafford.

Eventually, of course, United strengthened their defensive options by landing fellow Ajax ace Lisandro Martinez. He had enjoyed an outstanding debut campaign in England up until suffering a season-ending injury last month.

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In recent weeks, however, United have been linked with the prospect of rekindling their interest in Timber, who will celebrate his 22nd birthday next month. Liverpool have also been heavily linked with his signature, as have Italian champions Napoli.

Although Timber is mindful of interest in his signature, he, following talks with Ajax's new football director, Sven Mislintat, is refusing to rule out the prospect of staying in Amsterdam for one more season.

Timber, speaking to Dutch newspaper Algemeen Dagblad, said: "I met him here at De Toekomst [Ajax's training ground] and then we spoke briefly and one-on-one. He spoke longer with my agent. As far as I know, Ajax wants to keep me here.

"Other than that, it is difficult for me to say anything about it. Conversations about this will follow soon."

With several big-name clubs reportedly circling and eyeing up his signature, Timber added: "I'm now in the same