Sneijder urges Ajax, PSV or Feyenoord as Barcelona target’s next step

Barcelona are looking to sign a new defender in January and have been monitoring several European clubs, including FC Twente’s 18‑year‑old Ruud Nijstad, during the summer transfer window. Despite the Catalan club’s interest, Nijstad chose to remain at Twente and extended his contract there until 2029.

Sneijder urges Dutch stepping‑stone

Former Real Madrid and Netherlands midfielder Wesley Sneijder told ’s programme, as reported by, that the Dutch teenager would benefit from an intermediate step in Dutch football before moving to a European elite club. He named Ajax, PSV and Feyenoord as clubs that could give the defender valuable experience. “He would be better off playing for Ajax, PSV or Feyenoord,” Sneijder said.

Sneijder added that a direct move to a major club could be premature for Nijstad, questioning whether such a step was right at this stage of his development. “If you don’t perform well for two games, you’re out. I would consider it a waste for a player like him,” he warned.

He argued that gaining international football experience and establishing himself first would prepare Nijstad for the demanding environment of top European dressing rooms. “I always think that you should only join an elite club once you’ve gained experience,” Sneijder reiterated. Sneijder also cited Dean Huijsen’s early period at Real Madrid as an example of how ruthless elite clubs can be for young defenders. “They’re ruthless at those kinds of clubs,” he warned.

For now, staying at Twente allows Nijstad regular football and avoids the pressure of competing for a place at Barcelona. Sneijder believes the defender’s ambitions should include representing the Netherlands and playing in European competitions. He concluded that an intermediate step to Ajax, PSV or Feyenoord “wouldn’t be crazy” and could eventually generate significant income for the player.