Ajax are reportedly willing to listen to offers for centre-back Jurrien Timber this summer, who is believed to be a key target for Manchester United.

Erik ten Hag worked with the defender during his time at the Johan Cruyff Arena and attempted to sign him last summer. Now, the manager could reignite his interest.

Ajax have slapped a sizeable price tag on Timber, though, so Man Utd will have to put their money where their mouth is to get a deal over the line.

Ten Hag has enjoyed a good start to his Man Utd career this season. The Red Devils currently sit in fourth place in the Premier League table and look set for Champions League qualification.

The Dutch coach also guided his team to League Cup victory – Man Utd’s first major trophy since 2017.

However, if Ten Hag wants to turn the Red Devils into serial title contenders again, he will have to spend wisely this summer.

Equally, he will have to sell some of the players he doesn’t deem good enough. One he could offload is club captain Harry Maguire, who has fallen down the pecking order at Old Trafford.

The centre-back has featured just 14 times in the Premier League this term, with only seven starts to his name. With that in mind, it seems he is surplus to requirements and could be sold in the upcoming transfer window.

There are several clubs thought to be interested in signing Maguire. If he does leave, however, Man Utd will be forced to bring in a replacement.

As a result, Ten Hag could be set for a reunion with Timber this summer.

According to Florian Plettenberg, Ajax ‘definitely want’ to keep Timber, but have conceded he is likely to leave. Now, they have slapped a price tag of £44m on their defender.

Indeed, they note that the 21-year-old wants to join a ‘top club.’ Although, no concrete offers have been received, yet.

This season, Timber has started 100% of Ajax’s league games, showing his importance to the team. He has helped them to 10 clean sheets, as well as contributing two goals.

Also, despite being a youngster, the centre-back has already made 15 appearances for the Netherlands, showing how highly rated he is.

In March, Football365 reported that Ten Hag ‘would sign Timber tomorrow’ if he got the chance. So, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Man Utd meet his £44m valuation.

The Dutchman could prove to be an excellent long term investment for the Red Devils if they can finalise a deal. He would also, arguably, be an instant upgrade on Maguire and Victor Lindelof.

However, there are thought to be several European clubs vying to sign Timber. Therefore, Man Utd could face competition for his signature.

READ MORE: Transfer gossip: Man Utd face competition for France striker as Liverpool rival Red Devils for Ajax star

The article Man Utd could replace flop with £44m Ajax star as Ten Hag eyes stunning reunion with former player appeared first on Football365.com.