Liverpool legend John Barnes has encouraged his former club to sign Manchester United target Jurrien Timber from Eredivisie giants Ajax this summer.

Timber has been heavily linked with Premier League clubs over the past year. He was understood to be one of Man Utd’s main targets last summer after they appointed Erik ten Hag.

The Dutchman was keen to reunite with the defender at Old Trafford but he ended up committing his future to Ajax for another season.

The 21-year-old has continued to impress for Ajax this season and a summer switch to the Premier League is already being discussed ahead of the upcoming transfer window.

Man Utd are expected to be in the market for a new centre-back this summer with it looking likely that Harry Maguire and/or Victor Lindelof will leave the club.

Liverpool are also understood to be looking for a new centre-back who can provide competition for Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate, Joel Matip and Joe Gomez.

Earlier this month it was claimed that both Premier League clubs are in the race to sign the talented defender from Ajax.

Barnes has now suggested that Timber would be an ideal long-term replacement for Van Dijk.

“Of course, I know that he played together with Van Dijk in the Dutch national team and according to the latest rumours Van Dijk has told him that he has to go to Anfield,” Barnes told Soccer News.

“He is a good player and would therefore be a good asset to Liverpool. Virgil is already over thirty and he will not stay with the club forever. So in the long term, it’s not just about ‘coming to The Reds to form a duo with Van Dijk.’

“Liverpool also just needs to look for a new defender for the future. And in that respect, Timber would of course be a fantastic option if we manage to capture him.”

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Timber recently spoke openly about his future. He has admitted that a transfer away from Ajax “can happen” this summer.

“For me, it is the same situation as last season. If I say: I’m leaving, it has to fit,” Timber told Ziggy Sport. “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.”

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