Jurrien Timber hints at summer exit amid Manchester United, Liverpool talk

The Netherlands international was heavily linked with a move to Man United in the early stages of last summer's market following Erik ten Hag's arrival at Old Trafford as head coach.

Timber starred under Ten Hag in Amsterdam and was allegedly identified as a leading target, but he ultimately signed a new contract with his Dutch club until the summer of 2025.

The 21-year-old has again been a vital player for Ajax during the 2022-23 campaign, featuring on 42 occasions in all competitions, contributing one goal and two assists in the process.

However, the defender has hinted at a summer exit, claiming that he is "getting closer and closer" to securing a move away from the club.

"A transfer is getting closer and closer, so to speak. There is a lot of concrete interest and I have made agreements with Ajax," Timber told De Telegraaf.

"Last year Ajax asked me to stay for at least one more season and to extend my contract. As a club boy. At the Dutch national team, I often talk to boys who play football abroad. I want to take that step someday.

"But when that is, you will eventually hear and it will happen in consultation with Ajax. I'm still here anyway and I'm in no hurry. The focus is now on the cup final and the remainder of the competition."

Timber primarily operates as a central defender but is also capable of featuring as a right-back, which is believed to make him an even more attractive proposition for interested clubs.

Man United are expected to be in the market for another centre-back this summer, with Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof potentially leaving in search of regular starts.

Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez have both impressed during the 2022-23 campaign, but the latter is out for the season with a broken foot, while the former is facing a battle to return before the end of the season due to an ankle issue.

Liverpool, meanwhile, are also expected to bring at least one central defender to Anfield in the upcoming market as part of their rebuild.

Timber joined Ajax from Feyenoord in 2014, progressing through the various youth sides at the club before making his first-team debut in the summer of 2019.

The Dutchman has featured on 116 occasions for his current team in all competitions, contributing five goals and four assists in the process.