Manchester United move for Jurrien Timber comes crashing down after ‘words from Louis van Gaal’

Jurrien Timber’s potential transfer to Manchester United is ‘dead in the water’ after Holland boss, and former United manager, Louis van Gaal reportedly warned the move may affect his international prospects.

Van Gaal managed United from 2014-16, securing a fourth place finish in his first season and an FA Cup in his second. However, he struggled to win over the fans as his style of play was perceived to be negative, with too much backwards passing.

Timber, 20, has already established himself as a regular starter for Ajax, and has appeared eight times for Holland since his debut last year.

Jurrien Timber’s £30m move to Manchester United ‘is now off after words from Louis van Gaal’

Van Gaal is now in his third spell as his nation’s manager but will step down following the Qatar World Cup after he revealed he is battling prostate cancer.

Reports in The Sun claimed Timber was close to agreeing a £30m transfer deal with United, but that appears to have fallen through.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Dutch journalist Marcel Van Der Kraan said: ‘The player was ready to come. The player’s agents were in London at Manchester United’s offices two weeks ago.

Van Gaal (above) warned the defender may lose his Holland place is he cannot play regularly

‘The talks were very good, money was never a problem but then Louis van Gaal turned up and told the player in the Dutch camp “if you go there I think your chances could be limited for playing for Holland in the World Cup”.’

Timber himself echoed the same sentiment after Holland’s recent 3-2 win over Wales. He said: ‘You’re always flattered when teams show interest in you… but I am at the biggest club in the world at the moment and I feel fine there, so no news.’

The failed transfer will be a blow for new Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag, who showed faith in Timber during his successful time as Ajax manager.