Manchester United secret weapon to ward off Liverpool

Manchester United are reportedly eyeing Ajax defender Jurrien Timber as a potential summer signing, with the Red Devils said to have a secret weapon to help lure him to Old Trafford amid interest from Liverpool.

Timber, who has been a primary transfer target for Erik ten Hag, has impressed with his performances for Ajax this season, and his versatility as a centre-back and right-back has caught the attention of several clubs across Europe.

Although the Dutchman was rumoured with a move to United last summer, he opted to pledge his allegiance to the Amsterdam club instead. However, with Timber confirming his intention to leave Ajax this summer, the speculation around his next destination has intensified.

Liverpool is reportedly interested in signing the 21-year-old, with rumours circulating that his girlfriend has been house-hunting in Merseyside. Nonetheless, United are believed to have a trick up their sleeve to lure the talented defender to the Theatre of Dreams.

Diogo Dalot and Aaron Wan-Bissaka have both been linked with moves away from United, and Timber’s ability to play right-back could prove useful for the Red Devils. Moreover, Ten Hag is thought to want to add a right-back to his ranks.

While Manchester United is well-stocked in central defence, Timber’s ability to provide competition for Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate within Jurgen Klopp’s defence would be an added bonus for Liverpool.

Speaking to Dutch news outlet De Telegraaf, Timber revealed that a transfer is getting closer and closer, with several clubs showing concrete interest in him. However, he emphasized that he is in no hurry to make a move and is focused on Ajax’s upcoming fixtures.

“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,” he said.

Ten Hag will hope that United’s expected Champions League status, coupled with the presence of former teammate Lisandro Martinez, will be determining factors in Timber’s decision.

“I know how great it is to play alongside Lisandro. Though my performances don’t depend on him only. We were amazing together, especially with communication. It doesn’t surprise me that he played so good for Manchester United before his injury,” Timber added.

Wherever he ends up, Timber looks set to move on to pastures new at the end of the season. Nonetheless, it remains to be seen whether United’s secret weapon will be enough to convince him to choose Old Trafford over Anfield.