According to a report by Barca Universal on Saturday October 24, 2026, Barcelona could face increased competition for the signing of Ruud Nijstad after Manchester United reportedly joined the race for the highly rated FC Twente centre-back.

The Catalan club explored a move for the 18-year-old last summer and reportedly submitted an offer close to €8 million, but Twente rejected the proposal.

Barcelona's interest has not disappeared, although the emergence of several Premier League suitors could make a future deal significantly more difficult. Manchester United are understood to have received positive scouting reports on Nijstad and are now monitoring his situation closely.

United are not the only English club interested, with Manchester City, Aston Villa, Newcastle United, Brentford, Everton and Sunderland also reportedly keeping tabs on the Netherlands youth international.

Twente are in a strong negotiating position given that Nijstad's contract runs until June 2029. The Dutch club therefore have little reason to accept a low offer, particularly if competition for the defender continues to increase.

Nijstad's profile is believed to be one of the reasons why Barcelona remain interested. Standing at 1.95 metres tall, the centre-back possesses an imposing physical presence while also being comfortable in possession.

His left-footed profile could make him particularly attractive to Barcelona, who have traditionally valued defenders capable of contributing to the build-up from the back.

At just 18, Nijstad would represent a long-term investment rather than an immediate solution. Barcelona could look to develop him gradually and potentially turn him into an important first-team defender in the future.

The teenager has previously acknowledged contact with Barcelona and spoken positively about the Catalan giants, even describing them as the biggest club in the world.

That admiration could potentially work in Barcelona's favour, but the club will still need to negotiate with Twente and compete with financially stronger Premier League sides.