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Liverpool star Virgil Van Dijk heaps praise on Netherlands teammate Jurrien Timber
Virgil Van Dijk has heaped praise on Dutch international teammate Jurrien Timber and is stunned by the youngster’s potential; the defender has been linked with a move to Manchester United.
Van Dijk partners Timber at the heart of the Dutch national team’s defence, with both securing a clean sheet in their nation’s 2-0 win over Poland on Thursday.
The Liverpool star admitted that Timber has “so much potential” and has “nothing but praise” for the Ajax prodigy who has been impressing this season.
Speaking to MailSport, Van Dijk gushed over the 21-year-old’s potential and believes the Ajax man is better than he was at that age.
“I wasn’t nearly as far along as he is now (at the same age). I have nothing but praise for him. He is a great player and a true professional,” said Van Dijk.
“He has so much potential. Hopefully, he can develop further. Then it will be all right, I think.”
United links.
Manchester United failed to agree on a deal for the Dutch youngster in the summer; Ajax wanted a fee of £36million, which could now prove to be a steal. [Evening Standard].
Van Dijk’s praise of the starlet will sting United fans, especially after they were so close to securing his signature, nevertheless, a move could very much still be on.
With another season under his belt, Timber can arrive at Old Trafford next season a far more rounded talent and can hit the ground running for Erik ten Hag.
The nine-cap international broke through into the first-team under ten Hag, this bodes well for a potential reunion between the pair in the near future.
The fact Timber is being preferred to Matthijs de Ligt to partner centre-back Virgil Van Dijk for his national team says all you need to know about his potential.
It will be interesting to see where he ends up; don’t be surprised if United renew their interest in the summer.
In other Manchester United news, Erik Ten Hag might be looking to bring in a new defender and has identified this young talent from the French leagues.