Wesley Sneijder sends transfer warning to Manchester United over Jurrien Timber pursuit

Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing Jurrien Timber from Ajax this summer - but they have been warned about a move by Dutch football legend Wesley Sneijder.

Timber has been linked with a move to Old Trafford since the arrival of Erik ten Hag, with the United boss attempting to reunite with him in Manchester last summer.

But the 21-year-old opted to stay with the Dutch champions, and subsequently assured his place in Netherlands' World Cup starting XI by virtue of his consistently strong performances.

Earlier this week, Timber told Dutch outlet Ziggy Sport of his three demands if he were to leave Ajax this summer, with playing time firmly on the list.

The defender, who can play at both centre-back and right-back, as well as in defensive midfield if required, would be a quality, versatile option for Ten Hag were he able to add him to his squad.

But the United boss has been sent one warning over the move by Dutch icon Sneijder.

Sneijder on Timber

Sneijder, who played a starring role in the 2010 World Cup in helping the Netherlands to reach the final, praised Timber for his technical and defensive abilities in an interview with Dutch TV show Veronica Offside.

However, he did state one area that the defender must improve if he does move to the Premier League.

Sneijder claimed (quotes via Manchester Evening News): "He's a smart lad and a really good defender. But he loses every header and in England - against those wardrobes in the Premier League - that will be his downfall."

Timber has previously said that he would be open to joining Manchester City, if he leaves Ajax, due to their consistent challenges for trophies.

He told Helden Magazine last summer (via Sport Witness): "I like to play for prizes; that's why I play say [Manchester] City [over Barcelona] now. Barcelona has a less good period at the moment.

"I want to grow as a player, use my time at Ajax to become even better. At Ajax, you have to be happy if you are in the starting line-up; that's why I want to enjoy this time consciously. I play for the prizes here; there is no better place to be."