Jaap Stam sends transfer message to Jurrien Timber amid fresh Manchester United links

Former Manchester United defender Jaap Stam has advised Ajax ace Jurrien Timber to stay with the Dutch giants this summer amid fresh reports linking him with a move to Old Trafford.

Timber, 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 add him to his squad in M16.

In the end, of course, United turned their attentions to alternative targets and ended up strengthening their centre-back options with Lisandro Martinez, who was also recruited from Ajax. He has excelled in his debut campaign in England, establishing himself as one of the signings of the season.

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However, in recent weeks, United have been credited with renewed interest in Timber, 21, ahead of this summer's transfer window. The Reds could target a new right-sided full-back if one of Diogo Dalot or Aaron Wan-Bissaka leaves the club.

But despite Timber potentially being in with a chance of joining United or another big-name club this summer, former Reds ace Stam has urged the youngster to stay put, suggesting that he could continue to make a name for himself in his homeland, provided that Ajax appoint a suitable manager.

"He really has a lot of potential but he doesn't have to make a choice for money or a big-name [club]," Stam told Dutch newspaper Algemeen Dagblad. "At Ajax, he has the guarantee of playing for trophies.

"But what I would really consider if I were him is how and with him Ajax are thinking of hitting back. And if staying is an option for him, maybe he should