Liverpool and Manchester United remain in contention to sign Ajax defender Jurrien Timber, according to 90min.com journalist Graeme Bailey.

Arsenal have tabled an opening bid for the Dutch international, which was rejected by Ajax, but Bailey claims that the Reds and their Manchester rivals could still make a move for the player:

“I wouldn’t rule out United and Liverpool getting involved in this but, as it stands, Arenal have come in [with the first bid] at €35m.”

A lot will depend on Liverpool’s transfer priorities. The club have been focusing their efforts on recruiting midfielders but there is also a need to reinforce the defence.

Liverpool need a backup option for Trent

With Calvin Ramsay going on loan to Preston North End and James Milner leaving for Brighton, there really isn’t a lot of cover for Trent Alexander-Arnold at right-back.

Considering the 24-year-old is also playing as an inverted fullback, you do really need a specialist in that position to come in as his replacement when required.

For all intents and purposes, Timber appears to be the ideal player. The Dutchman is capable at right-back, as well as centre-half, and he is also comfortable in midfield.

Timber’s asking price could be an issue

Ajax are currently demanding around €60m (£51.5m) for Timber which is a sizeable amount for Liverpool; especially as he wouldn’t be brought in as a guaranteed starter. Those sorts of funds would likely be devoted to recruiting a midfielder instead.

There have been some rumours that Timber’s valuation could drop to €45m (£38.6m) but, even then, that could prove to be too much for the Reds.

You do worry that the Merseyside club may be missing a trick if they do miss out on Timber. Jurgen Klopp’s side do need to strengthen the centre of defence, in addition to right-back, and he could have killed two birds with one stone.