Manchester United have reportedly been dealt another hit after transfer target Jurrien Timber has reportedly decided he will stay at Ajax.
Dutch media, as per the Metro, have claimed that the defender has determined it's 'too much of a risk' to move to Old Trafford at this time.
The 20-year-old had been identified as a top target by Erik ten Hag, due to his ability to play both as a centre-back and on the right side of defence.
Dutch international Timber, is said to have wanted assurances over his playing time - particularly with the World Cup in Qatar getting underway in November.
The youngster will go on holiday this week before making a final decision on his future, but is now leaning towards staying in Amsterdam.
It comes after Netherlands manager Louis van Gaal fired a warning to Timber that the move 'is not so wise' in a World Cup year.
'I think a player of his quality can play in the Premier League. That is not a problem,' Van Gaal said.
'If he has to make this big step now, that's the question. It is not so wise I think [to move to United]. He has to play.'
Defence is a key area of concern for Ten Hag and his staff given United endured their worst Premier League season on record in 2021-22, conceding 57 goals as they finished sixth.
It would be the latest blow for Ten Hag who has seen the club's biggest rivals sign players this summer.
United had held interest in striker Darwin Nunez, only for the Uruguayan to decide to make the move to Liverpool for a fee that could reach £85million.
The Red Devils are working on a move for Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong but the Spaniards want around £72m for the Dutchman.
After impressing for the Netherlands in their recent 3-2 win over Wales, De Jong was asked by reporters about the links to Old Trafford.
He said: 'You're always flattered when teams show interest in you as a player but I am at the biggest club in the world at the moment and I feel fine there, so no news.'
