Ajax defender Jurrien Timber responds to Manchester United transfer speculation

Ajax starlet Jurrien Timber has played down suggestions that he could follow Erik ten Hag to Manchester United during the summer transfer window. Ten Hag was appointed by United on Thursday morning and the 52-year-old will spend the rest of this campaign in Amsterdam.

Chasing a third Eredivisie title in four years, Ten Hag and his vibrant Ajax team — including Timber — overcame NEC Nijmegen 1-0 on Saturday afternoon. That result put them four points clear of PSV Eindhoven at the top of the Dutch standings and came as United were beaten in the Premier League by Arsenal.

That 3-1 defeat at the Emirates means United will have to defy the odds to qualify for the Champions League next season. They are now rank outsiders for the top four.

READ MORE: David Moyes raises doubts over Erik ten Hag impact at Manchester United

As well as prioritising a holding midfielder, United are ready to target a centre-back when the market reopens and Timber, 20, has been mooted as a potential target, largely on account of his connection and relationship with Ten Hag. However, the six-cap Netherlands international appeared to pour cold water on a reunion while Ajax remain in contention to take part in the marquee European competition.

He said: "I'm good at Ajax. I can still learn a lot, especially if we continue to play in the Champions League."

Reacting to United's appointment of Ten Hag, the Ajax player added: "He deserves it. Ten Hag has been very important to me personally. Under him I became the footballer, the man I am today. The coach talked to me a lot. He's been very critical, in a good, constructive way. I won't forget it any time soon."

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