Barcelona intensifies its defensive hunt with Ajax's young Baas

Barcelona has identified AFC Ajax defender Youri Baas as one of its main options to strengthen the back line, after watching his performance in the Dutch Eredivisie between AFC Ajax and AZ Alkmaar at the Johan Cruijff Arena Stadium on 31 October 2026 in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

Maurice Van of Ajax said that Baas has become a possible alternative for the Catalan club as it continues its search for defensive reinforcements. Diario Sport reported that Barcelona values Baas for his versatility, youth and height. The Catalans believe he has the right profile for Hansi Flick's team and appreciate his experience.

Baas, 23, has already established himself as a leader at Ajax and is being eyed for a near‑future call‑up to the Netherlands national team. Indeed Sport claims that, after Xavi Hernández's arrival as coach of the Oranje, Baas has a good chance of making his international debut, comparing him to Íñigo Martínez and Aymeric Laporte.

Barcelona see dream candidate Youri Baas as a defensive reinforcement

Furthermore, Barcelona's radar includes other defenders such as Ruud Nijstad, Arthur Dias, Piero Hincapié and Vitor Reis. Barcelona will continue to monitor Baas and the other candidates closely as the transfer window approaches.