Ruud Nijstad has been linked with a move away from FC Twente, with Barcelona and Chelsea vying for his signature.
According to a report from Dutch outlet Voetbal International, Chelsea and Barcelona are interested in Ruud Nijstad. It remains to be seen whether the two clubs decide to follow up on their interest with an official proposal at the end of the season.
The report claims that the Eredivisie outfit have no plans to sanction his departure and hopes to agree on a new contract with Nijstad. The teenage sensation has also been linked with Manchester City and Newcastle United.
The 18-year-old is a talented defender with a bright future, and FC Twente will hope that he can develop into a key player for them in the long term. Meanwhile, the defender will look to continue his development with regular football.
Staying in the Netherlands could be ideal for him right now. Nijstad has started 14 Eredivisie matches this season and has two goal contributions. He is averaging 3.1 balls recovered and 2.2 duels won per game. He has a pass accuracy of 87% as well.
Nijstad needs to stay in the Netherlands
Nijstad is unlikely to start regularly for Barcelona or Chelsea at this stage of his career. The Dutchman is a young player who is still learning the trade. Barcelona and Chelsea need players who can make an immediate impact.
The two European heavyweights are hoping to fight for major trophies, and Nijstad will not be able to improve them immediately. However, there is no doubt he could be a superb long-term investment for both clubs.
Twente should look to tie the player down to a new deal quickly amid hopes of a renewal. They can help him improve further, and it will only help them fetch a substantial amount of money for his services in the summer if the youngster pushes for an exit.
Meanwhile, it is no secret that Chelsea and Barcelona need more depth in their defensive units. Players like Benoit Badiashile, Axel Disasi, and Ronald Araujo have all been linked with moves during the summer transfer window, and they will need to be replaced properly. It remains to be seen whether Chelsea or Barcelona decide to move on to other targets if they fail to sign Nijstad in the summer.
The opportunity to join some of the biggest clubs in the world could be exciting for the 18-year-old, but he needs to remain patient and focus on improving with regular opportunities now.
