“I am now in the same situation as last year” – Jurrien Timber makes honest admission on transfer amid Liverpool and Manchester United interest
Dutch centre-back Jurrien Timber recently admitted that he has not made a decision about his future at Ajax amid interest from Liverpool and Manchester United. Last month, Timber claimed that a move away from Ajax was imminent for him.
Liverpool and Manchester United are looking to bolster their defence this summer as they are keen on challenging for the Premier League title next season. The two sides have been linked with a host of players, with the Dutchman reportedly featuring on both wishlists.
In conversation with Algemeen Dagblad, Timber claimed that there was no update about his future. He admitted that Ajax want to keep him, but he eventually wants a move away. He said:
"I met him (Ajax sporting director Sven Mislintat) here at De Toekomst 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. Beyond that, I can hardly say anything about it. Talks about that will probably follow soon. Actually, I am now in the same situation as last year. I don't know yet whether I will make that step now. I'm happy to be at Ajax – here you can always show yourself."
Last month, Timber spoke about a possible move and admitted that he was getting closer to leaving Ajax. He said (via Sky Sports):
"A transfer is getting closer and closer, so to speak. There is a lot of concrete interest and I have made agreements with Ajax. Last year Ajax asked me to stay for at least one more season and to extend my contract. As a club boy, I did that with love and after the season we will review the situation. At the Dutch national team, I often talk to boys who play football abroad. I want to take that step someday."
Manchester United tried to sign Timber last summer from Ajax, but ended up bringing Lisandro Martinez and Antony to Old Trafford from the Eredivisie giants.
Liverpool and Manchester United keen to bolster their defense
Liverpool and Manchester United haven't been able to put pressure on Manchester City and Arsenal this season and are keen on getting into the title mix next season. The two rivals are working on their transfers for the summer and are opening talks with various players.
Jurgen Klopp recently mentioned that the club are looking at reinforcements in all positions, except goalkeeper. He said:
"We look in all departments apart from goalkeeper at the moment. Yes, if there is a good one (CB) out there, I would not deny it. That's all. We look at all areas of the pitch, definitely."
Joel Matip and Joe Gomez have not been at their best this season and Klopp is looking for someone who can deputize for Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate.
Manchester United are letting go of Phil Jones, while Harry Maguire could also be on his way out. United manager Erik ten Hag reportedly wants both players replaced as he wants to maintain the squad depth at Old Trafford.