Barcelona in focus: €20 million for teenager Nijstad

Spanish record champions FC Barcelona are already planning in the winter to acquire the 18‑year‑old centre‑back Ruud Nijstad from FC Twente and are set to spend around €20 million – a clear sign that FC Barcelona have millions of euros in view for the young talent.

The information comes from the Spanish sports newspaper Sport, which confirmed the transfer rumour.

Last summer Barcelona had already tried to sign the 18‑year‑old player, but without success.

The initial contact was confirmed by Twente sporting director Erik ten Hag, the former Manchester United manager.

Coach Hansi Flick plans to deploy Eric Garcia and Jules Kounde in the right‑back position, freeing up a spot in central defence.

In addition to Pau Cubarsi, Gerard Martin and Andreas Christensen, Nijstad should be an attractive alternative for the centre because of his youth, physicality and ability to build play safely.

According to a Sky report Barca also briefly showed interest in Jonathan Tah from FC Bayern, but Bayern immediately blocked the move.

The 18‑year‑old Nijstad comes from the Twente youth system and has already made 32 top‑flight appearances for Enschede.

His contract runs until 2029, so Twente reportedly demands a transfer fee of €20 million.

Currently Nijstad is active in the Dutch U21 team, coached by former Barca player Michael Reiziger, and is fighting in the playoff against Denmark for a spot at the European Championship.