Jurrien Timber verdict offered as Man Utd told to make £120million move

As much as Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag can try to change the culture and instil a philosophy at Old Trafford, so much of the team's potential progress will come down to recruitment.

It is an area where the Red Devils have been frequently found wanting in recent years, with a number of costly errors not only failing to improve the team, but also prove tough to shift from the first-team squad.

Ten Hag will know that while a long-term project is ahead of him, the faces that come through the door in his first summer in charge will set the tone for his tenure. The Dutchman and his scouting team will need to get things right. Mirror Sport has all of your latest Manchester United headlines.

Should United target Frenkie de Jong or Declan Rice as a midfield priority? Let us know in the comments section below!

United told to make £120million move

The Red Devils have been told that they should have no hesitation over paying £120million for West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice.

The England international has emerged as one of the best midfielders in the Premier League in recent years and would seemingly be the perfect addition for United given their problems at the hub of the team.

Given his talent, temperament and age, the Hammers would no doubt dig their heels in if there was an approach. But Steve Bates believes that even at the aforementioned amount, Rice would be value for money.

"Right now he's looking the bee's knees and has delivered on the first phase of his potential, emerging as a future leader of men whatever the colour of their shirt," he said. "Little wonder that Manchester United - among others - would all take the central midfield dynamo in a heartbeat - even if a £120million price tag is eye-watering."

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Van der Vaart offers Timber verdict

Former Netherlands international midfielder Rafael van der Vaart has offered a glowing assessment of Manchester United target Jurrien Timber.

Ten Hag is said to be keen to improve the Red Devils defence with the signing of the Ajax youngster. Despite the signing of Raphael Varane last summer, the Red Devils frequently leaked goals throughout a forgetable season.

Timber knows the possession-based football the new United boss wants to play and Van der Vaart has hailed his technical talent ahead of a potential switch.

"Timber is so quick, light feet, always sharp, never panicking on the ball," the former Tottenham man said of the 20-year-old. "Almost like a great midfielder in defence."

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Derby starlet eyed

United are said to be interest in Derby County youngster Malcolm Ebiowei.

The 18-year-old made his senior debut in February this year for the Rams, who are managed by Red Devils legend Wayne Rooney. The forward also netted his first goal in the penultimate game of the season against Blackpool.

Ebiowei has showcased a lot of promise early in his career, having already spent time in the youth setups of Arsenal and Rangers.

The teenager has now reportedly been identified by United's recruitment team as a potential star of the future, with his contract set to run out this summer. Derby's dire financial situation means they are not in a strong enough position to offer any players a new contract.

Read the story in full HERE.