Erik ten Hag warns Barcelona over Ruud Nijstad: “He wants to stay here” | OneFootball

FC Barcelona did a lot of business over the summer, but they were ultimately unable to sign a new central defender. They did try, particularly during the final days of the transfer window, when their leading target was Ruud Nijstad.

Barcelona have made multiple offers for sign Nijstad over the last eight months. They tried to bring him to the Spotify Camp Nou in January, but as was the case then and in the summer too, their proposals were deemed unsatisfactory by the teenager’s club, FC Twente.

Nevertheless, Barcelona intend to try again for Nijstad when the 2027 winter transfer window opens in four months’ time, but again, it will not be easy. This was made clear by FC Twente sporting director Erik ten Hag, who made the Eredivisie club’s stance clear in comments to RTV Oost (via Sport).

“There is a lot of interest in Ruud from different very big clubs. That’s no secret. He wants to stay here. We did not renew his contract by chance. He wants to continue his path here, at least during this season, to be successful with us and then we’ll see what happens.”

It’ll get increasing more difficult for Barcelona to sign Nijstad

At the age of 18, Nijstad has already established himself as a regular starter for FC Twente, who are one of the most established clubs in the Netherlands. His stock will continue to rise as he plays more often, at which point more sides from across Europe will start to take notice of him.

This will allow FC Twente to drive up their asking price, which will make it more and more difficult for Barcelona to sign – especially as they will have less FFP margin from next summer when they are forced to temporarily move away from the Spotify Camp Nou in order for the stadium’s roof to be installed.