‘A transfer is getting closer’

Jurriën Timber is most likely working on his last matches for Ajax, the 21-year-old defender says in conversation with The Telegraph. Although the fifteen-time international prefers not to talk about a transfer, journalist Mike Verweij still gets quite a bit of information from the mandekker. “There is a lot of concrete interest and I have made agreements with Ajax,” says Timber. In the Johan Cruijff ArenA, the right leg is still fixed until mid-2025.

Timber prefers to avoid questions about his future. “I’m very busy with the now because I know how important the coming weeks are for the club and the team.” Yet Timber cannot avoid it. “A transfer is getting 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 We will review the situation after the season.” Timber has reportedly been on manager Erik ten Hag’s wish list at Manchester United for a long time.

Timber likes playing football in a top competition. “At the Dutch national team, I talk a lot with guys who play football abroad. I also want to take that step one day. But when that is, you will eventually hear it and it will happen in consultation with Ajax. I’m still good here anyway and I’m in no hurry The focus is now on the cup final and the remainder of the competition.” Timber does not regret the extra year at Ajax that he has chosen, despite the many players who have left. “I make my own choices, regardless of the team. But it is no secret that we have a lesser selection than last season.”

Future of John Heitinga
Timber is also asked by Verweij about the future of head coach Heitinga. The defender is in favor of a longer stay for the Alphenaar at Ajax. “He is doing well. I already know John from Ajax Under 19 and knew what to expect. Although he surprised me in a positive way with the steps he has taken. Heitinga has a good influence on the group, has the intensity raised in training and increased the absolute will to win matches. The discipline and rules are also very clear.”