Dutch youngster Ruud Nijstad has confirmed FC Barcelona's interest in signing him during the summer transfer window. According to a report from Mundo Deportivo on Tuesday, the Catalan club made an eight-million-euro offer for the Twente defender, which was ultimately rejected.
Nijstad, an 18-year-old who can play as a centre-back or left-back, is under contract with the Dutch side until 30 June 2029. Speaking to Voetbal, the player acknowledged the contact. "El Barça es el más grande del mundo y que te quiera es maravilloso," Nijstad said. He added that the interest came through his agent and that he followed the situation in the media, but kept his focus on his team's important matches.
Why did the transfer not happen?
The move did not progress because FC Twente decided not to sell their young prospect. Nijstad showed understanding of his club's stance. "I understand why Twente did not let me leave," the defender stated. The player, who voluntarily extended his contract with Twente, expressed his happiness at remaining at a club where he can continue to play regularly and develop his career.
Barcelona's interest came at a busy time for the player, who learned the news on the same day his team played an away match against Qarabag. Nijstad said the rumours did not surprise him, but his priority was always performance with his current team.
How does Nijstad's profile fit Barcelona?
Barcelona, who lead La Liga with 12 points after four wins from four games, are always monitoring ways to strengthen their squad and the future of their defence. With 17 goals scored and just two conceded, Hansi Flick's team is showing strong collective form. However, the current injuries list includes important absences like Frenkie de Jong, Jesse Bisiwu and Roony Bardghji, highlighting the need for a deep and talented squad in the long term.
Nijstad's profile as a young, versatile defender fits the philosophy of clubs that invest in youth development. His ability to play in more than one position across the back line is an added value often sought at Camp Nou.
What is the team's current context?
Barcelona approach their next La Liga fixture in high spirits. The team will travel to face Levante, who are 11th in the table, on 13 September. This match is a chance to maintain their two-point lead over Alavés, their closest challenger in the standings.
The team's defensive solidity, key to their season start, is a pillar any new signing would be expected to help consolidate. Fans can follow the upcoming schedule on our fixtures page.
For now, Ruud Nijstad will continue his path at Twente, aware that interest from a giant like Barcelona is a huge compliment, but also that his time for such a major leap may not have come yet. His contract binds him to the Enschede club until the summer of 2029.
