Nijstad has already established himself in Twente’s first team despite his age, helping the Dutch club secure European football. His progress has continued this season, when he has started 11 of the team’s 13 matches across all competitions.
His performances have also earned him promotion to the Netherlands Under-21 squad during the current international break, another indication of how quickly his status has developed.
Barcelona have been monitoring the defender for some time. His name was strongly linked with the Catalan club during the summer, and according to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, their interest has not disappeared.
There were contacts between Barcelona and the player’s representatives during the final days of the summer transfer window, but Twente refused to allow Nijstad to leave. The decision has since been justified by his importance to the team.
Barcelona’s interest is partly driven by a need for a left-footed centre-back, with Nijstad viewed as a player whose profile fits the requirements of Hansi Flick’s squad.
The teenager’s development has made him an increasingly attractive target, but Barcelona are not alone in following his situation.
Romano reports that several other clubs are also monitoring Nijstad ahead of next summer, meaning Barcelona could face significant competition if they decide to turn their interest into a formal approach.
Nijstad is under contract with Twente until June 2029, giving the Dutch club a strong negotiating position. There is therefore little pressure on them to sell, particularly with the defender continuing to play an important role.
His contract length could also contribute to an increase in his eventual asking price. With several major European clubs watching him, Twente will have little reason to accept a low offer for a player who is still developing and has already become an important first-team footballer.
For Barcelona, the situation is therefore one to monitor rather than an imminent transfer. The club has already made contact, but Twente’s refusal to sell during the summer demonstrated the difficulty of securing Nijstad.
His continued progress will only increase interest, particularly if he maintains his place in the Twente side and establishes himself with the Netherlands Under-21 team.
Barcelona believe they need a left-footed central defender, and Nijstad fits that profile. Whether they can win the race for his signature next summer will depend on how aggressively they pursue the teenager and how much his growing reputation increases his price.