Defensive boss of the future? Bayern continue to keep an eye on Oranje jewel | OneFootball

FC Bayern have long been planning beyond the present – and are increasingly focusing on the stars of tomorrow. One name that continues to play a role in this is Ruud Nijstad

The 18-year-old central defender from Twente Enschede has made an impressive impression on the professional stage this season and has attracted the interest of several top clubs. The German record champions are also said to be keeping a close eye on the Dutch junior international

The youngster’s season has been almost perfect so far: after making his professional debut in October, Nijstad quickly established himself and has now made numerous appearances in the Twente shirt

This development has not gone unnoticed internationally either, with AS Roma, Chelsea FC and FC Barcelona, among others, reportedly keeping an eye on the central defender

The interest from Italy is particularly concrete, but Munich are apparently also keeping a close eye

Bayern is thinking long-term

photo: IMAGO

There is currently no acute need for action in central defense at Säbener Straße, with Dayot Upamecano, Jonathan Tah and Minjae Kim providing the record champions with top-class defensive options

Nevertheless, those responsible are pursuing a clear strategy: identifying talent at an early stage and developing it for the future

Nijstad would fit this profile perfectly. The Dutchman is regarded as a player with great potential who is capable of development – exactly the type of player Bayern would like to integrate in the future

Rumors persist

The interest is not entirely new. It was reported back in February that Nijstad was on Munich’s internal list. Now there are increasing indications that the contact is still ongoing

A possible transfer fee has also already been mentioned: Twente are said to be demanding around ten million euros for their talent, although this figure could rise further in view of his strong development

Should FC Bayern really get serious, however, there will be some serious competition: AS Roma in particular are said to be very interested and could try to make an early move

For Munich, the question therefore arises as to whether they will make a move next summer – or continue to monitor the youngster’s development for the time being.