Ruud Nijstad of Netherlands
Photo by Mateo Villalba Sanchez/Getty Images for DFB
Barcelona are considering a late move for FC Twente centre-back Ruud Nijstad as Deco looks to add another young profile to the squad before the transfer window closes.
According to journalist Nil Sola, Barcelona have identified Nijstad as a player worth pursuing, although Twente’s €10 million asking price could prove decisive in determining whether a deal is possible.
The Dutch defender has been on Barcelona’s radar for several weeks, with the club’s sporting department convinced that his profile fits their recruitment strategy.
Barça are now expected to assess whether they can complete the operation as soon as tomorrow.
Deco has already studied Nijstad closely
Barcelona’s interest in Nijstad is not a sudden deadline-day development.
What a goal by Ruud Nijstad. The 18-year-old LCB who plays for FC Twente is being heavily linked with FC Barcelona.
And, for those who may have missed out on it, there’s a brand-new thread on his fit to the Catalans on my page. pic.twitter.com/dUK3H8yRXN
— R.D. Football Scout (@RdScouting) August 30, 2026
In fact, Deco and Joao Amaral have travelled to the Netherlands twice to meet with people close to the player, giving the club an opportunity to assess his qualities and character at close quarters.
Nijstad is young, left-footed and considered to have considerable room for development. These are the three characteristics that fit the type of player Barcelona have targeted.
His performances have also strengthened the case for moving now. The Twente defender impressed against Cambuur over the weekend and was subsequently included in the Eredivisie team of the week.
Sola explained the club’s approach by saying: “Barcelona will try to make some signings at the last minute.
“They will try to make a signing that is not a priority, but as I explained to the Technical Secretariat, especially incorporating young profiles.”
Twente refuse to make life easy for Barcelona
Deco, Barcelona sporting director
Deco has travelled to the Netherlands twice to assess Ruud Nijstad. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
The biggest obstacle is likely to be the Dutch club.
Twente have already rejected Barcelona’s interest and do not intend to part with one of their most promising young players without a significant financial return.
Their current demands are understood to be around €10 million.
That is a substantial figure for a player Barcelona would view primarily as a long-term investment rather than an immediate first-choice starter.
Still, the fact that Barça are prepared to explore the possibility at this stage suggests Nijstad has made a strong impression on the sporting department.
Julian Alvarez, Atletico Madrid player
Julian Alvarez, Atletico Madrid player