Barcelona make contact over exciting 18-year-old Dutch defender; face immediate rejection

Barcelona make contact over exciting 18-year-old Dutch defender; face immediate rejection Barcelona’s search for a new left-footed defender has taken them to the Netherlands, with FC Twente youngster Ruud Nijstad emerging as the latest name linked with a move to the Catalan giants. According to Dutch outlet Voetbal International , Barcelona have contacted FC Twente to enquire about the possibility of signing the highly rated 18-year-old defender.  However, the report claims that the Blaugrana have already received a firm response from their technical director Erik ten Hag. The answer was a clear refusal. Barcelona are understood to be looking for a specialist left-footed option to strengthen Hansi Flick’s defensive resources, and the club’s search has been shrouded in secrecy.  In fact, earlier reports suggested that the target does not play in Spain and is a player unlikely to be widely recognised by casual supporters.  Notably, after prominent names such as Castello Lukeba and Goncalo Inacio were ruled out, Nijstad has now entered the conversation. Barcelona contact FC Twente over Ruud Nijstad Nijstad fits several elements of the profile Barcelona are believed to be pursuing. The defender is young, plays outside Spain and is not yet among the biggest household names in European football.  According to VI, Barcelona are keen to buy the 18-year-old and have already made contact with FC Twente regarding a possible transfer. The report does not rule out another approach in the coming days, suggesting that Barcelona’s interest could remain alive despite the initial setback. However, any deal would depend on FC Twente changing their stance, and that currently appears unlikely. This is because Ten Hag is determined to keep Nijstad, who has a contract until 2029, and has no intention of facilitating a departure.  Erik ten Hag shuts the door on Barcelona move Erik Ten Hag has refused to sell Ruud Nijstad. (Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images) Simply put, Barcelona’s first approach was met with an immediate rejection, with the Dutch club effectively closing the door on negotiations. Ten Hag is unwilling to entertain a sale and wants Nijstad to remain part of the club’s plans.  Barcelona may be one of Europe’s biggest names, but their interest has not been enough to persuade Twente to reconsider the defender’s future. That leaves Barcelona facing an important decision.  They could return with an improved proposal and attempt to test Twente’s resolve, or move on to another candidate as they continue their search for a left-footed defender. For now, though, the club’s mystery signing remains unresolved.