Barcelona miss out as transfer target signs new contract

La Liga giants Barcelona have missed out on a potential summer deal for FC Twente sensation Ruud Nijstad.

This comes after the youngster made the call to continue his progression in his home country of the Netherlands for the seasons ahead.

Nijstad, for his part, is an 18-year-old defender, who chiefly lines out in a central role.

The starlet has long been considered one of the standout up-and-coming talents in the Eredivisie, a reputation solidified by his impressive 24 first-team appearances this past season.

Along the way, Nijstad is understood to have caught the eye of some of Europe’s leading clubs, chief amongst them the aforementioned Barcelona.

As alluded to above, though, if the latest word stemming from the Netherlands is anything to go by, then the stopper will be going nowhere any time soon.

As per a report from journalist Fabrizio Romano:

‘Big news for Erik ten Hag and Twente: agreement in place with Ruud Nijstad over new contract valid until June 2029. Barcelona, PSV and Eintracht were all keen but Nijstad decides to stay and sign new contract.’

Conor Laird – GSFN