Manchester United joined a cluster of Europe’s biggest clubs in the race to sign highly-rated Feyenoord midfielder Quinten Timber, according to reports. Erik ten Hag will already be drawing up plans for the 2024 summer transfer window, and they could involve another midfield signing to continue his revamp.
Feyenoord caught the attention of scouts from many of Europe’s elite during their Dutch Eredivisie-winning 2022/23 season.
But not many players impressed as much as Timber, who is the subject of an ever-increasing pool of heavyweight suitors across the continent.
According to 90min, Timber has earned plaudits from scouts working for Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur.
The 22-year-old has continued his dazzling form into the new season, operating in a range of midfield roles, registering a goal and three assists in seven league outings.
AS Monaco, Atletico Madrid, Borussia Dortmund and Napoli have also been credited with an interest in Timber.
But Arsenal, who have also liked what they have seen from Timber, could hold the advantage in the transfer battle for his signature.
In the summer, Arsenal signed the U21 international’s brother, Jurrien Timber, sealing a £38million deal with Ajax.
And despite Timber’s early injury woes at the Emirates Stadium, he could very easily convince the Feyenoord star to join him in north London.
In August, Timber expressed his desire to one day join his brother in completing a big-money transfer away from the Netherlands.
“Yes, for sure. In the future, of course. It would be nice to be able to take such a step,” Timber explained.
“But that, of course, starts today at Feyenoord. This season, I want to show beautiful things. And we will see what the future brings. But that would certainly be nice, yes.”
A midfielder isn’t expected to be among Erik ten Hag’s priorities at United next summer, although the need to recruit Casemiro’s long-term successor has become clear at the start of the campaign.
United are expected to focus a chunk of their budget on at least one centre-back and a winger to replace Jadon Sancho, who could depart Old Trafford as early as January.
Ten Hag has made a special effort to overhaul the engine room he inherited at United, though, signing five midfielders across his three transfer windows in charge.
The Red Devils have the option to make Sofyan Amrabat’s loan permanent for around £21million but may also target a younger, more long-term option.
