Bayern Munich could be blocked in their efforts to sign Jurrien Timber, with Manchester United stealing a march to land the Dutch talent.
Sky Germany reported a week ago that Bayern have reached out to Jurrien Timber’s representatives over a potential summer move, having received a glowing recommendation from Louis van Gaal.
But their inquiries could come to nothing, with Manchester United reported to be in pole position for the transfer.
Timber has been lined up for a move to Old Trafford, with The Mirror first reporting United’s interest earlier this year.
Bayern fear fear Jurrien Timber is heading to Manchester United
While Bayern have not given up, they fear Jurrien Timber is heading to Manchester United, rather than being an easily attainable transfer target.
The latest update came via Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg, who ran the original report claiming Bayern’s interest. He confirms Bayern have held talks with the players’ representatives.
Timber has been a key player for Ajax this season, capable of featuring in central defence or even at right-back.
Erik ten Hag was asked about potentially signing Timber and teammate Antony in an interview with De Telegraaf, where he admitted the competition for the Dutchman’s signature could be vast.
Bayern want to sign a new centre-back after losing Niklas Sule on a free transfer to Borussia Dortmund, and also missing out on Antonio Ruidger to Real Madrid.
They have however managed to secure Timber’s Ajax teammate Noussair Mazraoui. The Mirror had claimed Manchester United tried to hijack the move for the Moroccan as a free agent, but were unsuccessful.
Bayern are also in pole position to sign central midfielder Ryan Gravenberch, with Goal.com reporting their interest in the young prospect.
But it seems, for all their efforts, they may be unable to land Timber, who was voted as Ajax’s ‘Talent of the year’ last week after winning the Eredivisie title.
The lure of reuniting with Ten Hag may be too strong for the defender, thankfully for United.
Of all the various links between Manchester United and the players who could be signed, the links to Timber currently feel the strongest, and the move could be an important one.
Victor Lindelof is the youngest of Manchester United’s first team centre-backs, at 27, and younger talent is needed. Timber, 20, is an ideal option who won’t break the bank.
