Former Ajax attacker and Netherlands international Ronald de Boer has tipped Manchester City to sign Dutch talent Jurrien Timber one day in the future.
Speaking to Ajax Showtime, the ex-Barcelona star predicted that Timber could flourish in the Premier League with City if he is to leave Ajax this year. The 20-year-old defender is the latest prospect off the Dutch club’s incredible production line.
Timber has made 25 appearances in all competitions this season and has proven to be an outstanding defensive prospect, with the Dutch international flourishing as both a centre-back and a right-back.
However, one criticism of the player has been his statue, with Timber only standing at 5’9”. Despite this, though, the defender has proven to be a unit at the back for Ajax. And for De Boer, his skillset, despite his frame, is perfect for a club like City.
De Boer said: “I really like Timber. He plays so well. He is calm on the ball. It’s unprecedented. But could he, because he is 1.78m (5’9”), will he be able to do it in the Premier League against Lukaku or another top striker?’
The former Ajax attacker added; “Will clubs go for that? It depends what kind of club you go to. I think he can join Manchester City like that. There he plays with a lot of space at his back.”
Timber could be City’s latest revelation if Txiki makes move
A case could be made that City changed the role goalkeepers play following the arrival of Ederson Moraes. And a similar argument could well be made if Txiki Begiristain brings Timber to Manchester this year.
After all, defenders have been defined as players who are the tallest and bulkiest on the pitch. Meanwhile, Timber has broken this stereotype in some style for Ajax. And for City, they could again revolutionise a position by finding a player to become the new benchmark.
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