Manchester United

Manchester United

Premier League • England

Ruud Gullit rings out major warning to Erik ten Hag over big mistake in signing Ajax talent for Man Utd

ntony of Ajax celebrates after scoring his sides first goal with Jurrien Timber of Ajax during the Dutch Eredivisie match between FC Utrecht and AFC Ajax at Stadion Galgenwaard

Incoming Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has been advised to think twice about bringing Ajax prodigy Jurrien Timber with him to Old Trafford.

The Dutchman is formally expected to be announced as United’s new boss this week. That’s after transfer guru Fabrizio Romano gave the imminent appointment his ‘Here We Go’ seal of approval. Ten Hag will sign an initial three-year deal, which makes him the highest paid Dutch manager in Premier League history.

Ten Hag clearly faces a huge job at United. Their stock has rarely been lower since Sir Alex Ferguson’s appointment in 1986. And Tuesday’s 4-0 defeat at Liverpool means their arch-rivals have beaten them by a 9-0 aggregate scoreline this season.

In the aftermath of that defeat, Roy Keane piled in on two players in particular.

As such, Ten Hag is likely to ring serious changes within United’s playing squad. Them reaching the Champions League will give United a much-welcome financial boost.

However, maybe failure to get there would not be the worst thing, knowing he will, if you will, almost a free-will to rip apart the squad.

Indeed, up to 11 players are expecte to depart Old Trafford this summer. To that end, interim boss Ralf Rangnick has provided an update on the futures of Paul Pogba, Juan Mata and Jesse Lingard.

Ten Hag needs to build tighter defence

Ten Hag’s immediate priority will likely be to shore up the Red Devils defence. They have now conceded a worrying 48 goals in 33 games – their worst return in 43 years.

And it’s little surprise to see them being linked with another big-name centre-half signing. One man who won’t be signing though is Antonio Rudiger. A report on Tuesday outlined exactly why he doesn’t fancy making the switch.

But another regularly linked is Ajax youngster Timber.

The 20-year-old is the latest talent to roll off the Amsterdammers production belt. A stylish and versatile defender, any deal for Timber would likely set United back around £40m.

Gullit has Jurrien Timber concerns

Timber has plenty of admirers after an excellent season.

However, it seems Ruud Gullit is not one of them, having sounded out a huge warning over his potential signing.

“I think Timber is a very good player, but whether he can be a defender in England,” Gullit told Ajax Showtime.

Erik Ten Hag to be announced and has no problem ruining Ajax team

Erik Ten Hag to be announced and has no problem ruining Ajax team

Erik Ten Hag will become Manchester United manager and wants to sign Ajax winger Antony as his first signing

“You also play against Burnley and West Brom. The top seven strikers are all world-beaters.

“I think he is a very good footballer, but I have my doubts about whether he is a good defender.”

Whether United move for Timber remains to be seen.

However, Wednesday’s Paper Talk suggests he may only be their Plan B with a leading Spainish star reportedly on their radar.