Liverpool and Man Utd receive transfer boost as Van der Sar's Ajax exit clears path to Jurrien Timber

Liverpool and Manchester United have received a boost to their transfer plans after Edwin van der Sar resigned from his post as Ajax chief executive.

The former Red Devils goalkeeper has stepped down following a disastrous campaign with the Dutch giants, in which they failed to qualify for the Champions League for the first time in 14 years.

"After almost eleven years on the board, I am done," van der Sar said in a statement.

However, his departure could spell good news for Liverpool and Manchester United, who are both thought to be interested in signing Ajax defender Jurrien Timber.

Liverpool are in the market for defensive recruits this summer, with Trent Alexander-Arnold playing a new hybrid full-back/midfield role.

According to widespread reports, Timber has been identified as a potential addition, while his girlfriend was allegedly house-hunting in Liverpool last month.

Thirty-odd miles up the road, the likes of Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof have been rumoured with moves away from Old Trafford, leaving Erik ten Hag in need of defensive cover.

Despite predominantly playing as a centre-back for Ajax, Timber has also been deployed as a right-back for the Netherlands, making him an attractive option for the United boss.

And it seems both clubs could be in with an even better chance of landing his signature this summer, after van der Sar packed his bags.

Liverpool and Man Utd receive transfer boost

Manchester United originally tried to sign Timber last summer, but the 21-year-old decided to pen a one-year extension at Ajax instead.

Van der Sar was allegedly influential in the deal, but with the United legend now out of the picture at Ajax, Timber may choose to move onto pastures new.

Moreover, the versatile defender has openly admitted that a transfer could materialise this summer.

Speaking earlier in the campaign, he told Ziggy Sport (quotes via Voetbal Primeur): "For me it is the same situation as last season. If I say: I'm leaving, it has to fit. Playing style is important, playing minutes… Participating in the prizes is also important. My favourite country? I dare not say that.

"That's why I'm doing the same as last season. The chance is there, it can happen, but I’m also good here. I'm still young and everything suits me here. I’m going to take a look."

Topics: Liverpool, Manchester United, Football, Premier League, Ajax, Edwin Van Der Sar, Transfers

Joe Adams

Joe is a Journalist for SPORTbible with a primary focus on football. He has previously covered a number of other sports including boxing, rugby and F1. Wishes he was born left-footed.

@joeadamsjourno