According to Sport, Barcelona may continue their pursuit of Twente centre-back Ruud Nijstad during the winter transfer window. Nijstad has just received his first call-up to the Netherlands U21 squad.

Ruud Nijstad, 18, was a primary target in Deco's summer transfer plans, but the move did not materialise. The Netherlands U21 team will participate in European Championship qualifying matches against Norway, Slovenia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The Dutch player has previously represented the Netherlands at U19, U17, and U16 levels, and this will be his U21 debut. He will also be teammates with Kees Smit, another player Barcelona have been monitoring.

Kees Smit plays for AZ Alkmaar and was dubbed the "new Pedri" by Koeman. He made his senior Netherlands debut in March, but Xavi Hernández does not want to rush his development.

Ruud Nijstad has continued to impress for Twente this season, making 10 appearances so far, including 5 in UEFA Conference League and Europa League qualifying. His contract with Twente runs until 2029, but he has never hidden his dream of playing for Barcelona. Barcelona are seeking a left-footed centre-back who is technically gifted, young, and has room to develop.

Ruud Nijstad said in July: "Playing for Barcelona and forming a centre-back partnership with Cubarsí is certainly the main goal. But first, I want to continue developing at Twente. I still have a lot to learn here."

Previously, Barcelona made an offer for Ruud Nijstad, but the attempt was rejected by Twente's technical director, Erik ten Hag, as the offer fell short of €8 million. Nijstad reiterated his interest in Barcelona: "This is the biggest club in the world. When my transfer was still possible, I wondered what it would be like? Barcelona… when a club like that wants you, it's incredible. I know there was contact between the two clubs. As for other matters, I leave that to my agent. They won't put too much pressure on me."

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