In talks: MUFC "seriously interested" in signing £35m "top talent", ETH will love him - opinion

Manchester United are expected to have a big summer transfer window following the arrival of Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford, and now one of the Dutch coach’s former players has been linked with joining the manager.

According to Sky Sports Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg, Man United are plotting a move and are currently in talks for Ajax defender Jurrien Timber.

Plettenberg tweeted: “Update Timber: FC Bayern inquired about him but it is said that the 20 y/o could join Ten Hag to MUFC!

“Talks with his management have taken place. Manchester United is seriously interested.”

It’s thought a deal could cost as much as £35m this summer.

There is no doubt that the Red Devils are in need of improving their squad and their defence has been an area that has been criticised this season, so if Ten Hag could bring in a player he knows can be effective in his style of play he would surely love to have him at the club.

The £27m-rated youngster who was hailed as “reliable” by Marco van Basten has had a great season with the Dutch coach winning the Eredivisie this season and has been giving glimpses of his outstanding defensive abilities.

According to SofaScore, Timber has won the majority of both his aerial and ground duels (67%), with an impressive 91% pass accuracy and making 2.4 tackles, 1.7 interceptions, 1.4 clearances and an astonishing 90.8 touches on average per game, proving that he has been a real solid presence for Ajax in his 30 league appearances.

However, it is not just his defensive attributes that have made Ten Hag desperate for the centre-back to join him at Old Trafford as his effectiveness in attacking opportunities is a massive bonus too.

The 20-year-old who has been described as a “top talent” has scored three