Barcelona have reopened discussions with FC Twente regarding a potential move for teenage defender Ruud Nijstad. The renewed contact comes as Álvaro Cortés departs the Catalan club for Royal Antwerp, potentially creating space in the defensive ranks ahead of the transfer deadline.
According to Voetbal International, the La Liga giants could table a late bid before the window closes. Interest in the 18-year-old centre-back is not new; speculation first emerged last season and has resurfaced in the final days of the window following confirmation of Cortés’s switch to Belgium. The timing suggests Barcelona are actively seeking reinforcements after sanctioning their player’s move to the Belgian side.
Twente coach criticises rumour timing
FC Twente manager John van den Brom addressed the speculation ahead of his side’s European match against Qarabag on Thursday. He indicated that he had seen the reports but could do little with them, describing the timing as unfortunate given the immediate focus required for the fixture.
Van den Brom noted that the 18-year-old occasionally experiences insecurity, which he deemed understandable at that age. While he suggested such reports do not help the player, he acknowledged they might also convince Nijstad that he possesses the quality required for a club of Barcelona’s stature.
Nijstad’s Camp Nou ambitions
The Dutch youngster has previously spoken cautiously about his future. Before the current season began, he stated he was not contemplating an immediate switch to Barcelona because he doubted he would secure regular first-team football at this stage of his development.
Despite his reservations about an immediate move, Nijstad has made clear his ultimate aspiration: lining up alongside current Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsí. This ambition has continued to accompany reports linking him with the Spanish giants.
For now, Barcelona’s approach remains at the discussion stage. With Cortés confirmed to be heading to Royal Antwerp, the club may accelerate their pursuit of the FC Twente teenager as they look to bolster their defensive options before the transfer window shuts.