Barcelona brace for €20 million Nijstad price by scouting four backs

Barcelona have identified four alternative centre‑backs as they assess their options ahead of the transfer market, with sporting director Deco unwilling to make Ruud Nijstad their only defensive target. Barcelona have intensified their interest in Nijstad, the 18‑year‑old Dutch defender, but FC Twente’s reported €20 million asking price has complicated the situation. The Catalans consider that valuation excessive for a player of his age, making alternative recruitment options increasingly important.

Why Barcelona seek alternatives

According to SPORT, the Catalans are monitoring Youri Baas, Vitor Reis, Arthur Dias and Finn Jeltsch as potential alternatives if negotiations with FC Twente fail to produce an agreement.

The four candidates

Youri Baas is a 23‑year‑old left‑footed centre‑back who can also operate at left‑back. He offers versatility, composure in possession and the ability to build attacks from defence. Ajax are demanding approximately €34 million for his signature, almost double Nijstad’s value. Consequently, Baas would be more expensive than Nijstad and not necessarily a cheaper solution. Vitor Reis is a 20‑year‑old Brazilian defender owned by Manchester City. His limited involvement this season could create an opportunity for Barcelona to explore a temporary move. He has already gained European experience through a loan spell at Girona. He would represent a different recruitment proposition from the other candidates. Arthur Dias is a 19‑year‑old left‑footed centre‑back who plays for Athletico Paranaense. He has emerged as one of the promising young defensive prospects in Brazilian football. Barcelona have scouted Arthur Dias in Brazil. His development has attracted interest from Tottenham, Newcastle United and Atletico Madrid. Tottenham have already seen an offer rejected. Athletico Paranaense reportedly value the defender at approximately €30 million. Finn Jeltsch is a 20‑year‑old German centre‑back who plays for Stuttgart. He has attracted considerable attention from Europe’s leading clubs. Barcelona have sent a scout to assess him during a Champions League fixture. Flick is particularly impressed by his development. His contract runs until 2030. His valuation of €50 million to €60 million would make him an expensive acquisition.