Man Utd boss Ten Hag plotting move for World Cup star despite 'gentlemen's agreement'

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag wants to sign World Cup star Jurrien Timber from his former club Ajax with scouts sent to keep tabs on the defender.

According to The Sun, Ten Hag has sent a list of more than a dozen Dutch players to his European scouts as he looks to lower the age of his squad.

It's not a surprise he is targeting players from his native country, having already signed Lisandro Martinez, Tyrell Malacia and Antony from the Eredivisie.

The Red Devils wanted to sign Timber last summer, with reports at the time saying Dutch coach Louis van Gaal advised the player against moving to Old Trafford.

Despite this, he remains on Ten Hag's list as he looks to build a side capable of sustaining a challenge on all fronts.

Timber featured in four games for the Netherlands at the Qatar World Cup in their run to the quarter-final where they were eventually knocked out by champions Argentina.

Ten Hag had a 'gentlemen's agreement' not to raid Ajax

After moving to the Premier League last summer, it was reported that Ten Hag had a 'gentlemen's agreement' in place with Ajax to not raid the club of their players.

He appeared to defy this by signing both Martinez and Antony and looks set to do the same again with Timber.

The 21-year-old has featured in all 16 of Ajax's league games this season and kept five clean sheets in that time.

He could improve United's defensive options with rumours re-emerging this month suggesting club captain Harry Maguire could leave, potentially allowing Timber to slot in.

With the recent signing of Wout Weghorst, there are now three Dutch players in United's squad, so it wouldn't take long for him to settle.

Last season saw the Red Devils suffer their worst ever defensive record, it's improving under their new manager but adding Timber could really cement their push for a league title.