Barcelona abandoned move for 18-year-old prospect due to €8 million price tag | OneFootball

Barcelona continue working on the search for a reliable left-footed centre-back to strengthen the squad ahead of what is expected to be a busy summer transfer window.

For months, the club has been gathering reports and maintaining contacts with agents to learn about the situation of different defenders who might fit the profile sought by the sporting department.

Although the name that generates the most consensus inside the club is Alessandro Bastoni, his price makes the operation extremely complicated.

For that reason, Barcelona are studying more accessible alternatives on the market that could offer both performance and room for development.

Ruud Nijstad move explored but ruled out

One of the names that emerged during this process was 18-year-old FC Twente defender Ruud Nijstad.

According to SPORT, Barcelona director Deco and head of scouting Joao Amaral even travelled twice to meet with the player’s representatives, a detail that reflects the level of interest his profile generated within the club.

The reports were positive, and he was viewed as a defender with good qualities and considerable room for growth despite his young age.

Deco held multiple meetings with Nijstad’s agent. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

However, Twente set the asking price at close to €8 million. After evaluating the deal, Barcelona concluded that they would not reach that figure.

Despite the player being well-liked, the Catalans chose not to take that step and instead continued exploring other options.

Reinforcements already at home

In addition, Barcelona have already strengthened that position during the winter transfer window with young profiles.

The Blaugrana signed Juwensley Onstein, considered an important long-term investment. He is a left-footed centre-back, and the club believes strongly in his development over the coming years.

Another arrival is Patricio Pacifico, a left-footed player who can operate both as a centre-back and as a full-back. He produced a very promising performance in his debut for Barça Atletic against Atletico Baleares, leaving very positive impressions.

For now, Barcelona’s plan is to prioritise the development of these young players under the guidance of Juliano Belletti and give opportunities to footballers already within the club’s structure rather than making a large investment abroad.

Meanwhile, the scouting department, led by Joao Amaral, continues scanning the international market in search of new opportunities.