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Barcelona’s sporting director Deco has pivoted his focus toward securing a left-footed centre-back in the final days of the transfer window, following the club’s recent acquisition of Gabriel Jesus from Arsenal. This defensive reinforcement has become increasingly urgent after several squad changes altered the club’s initial plans for the position.
The departure of Ronald Araujo to Liverpool on loan, combined with academy defender Alvaro Cortes’ decision to leave the club, has created a pressing need for defensive depth. Cortes’ exit was driven by concerns about limited playing time and awareness that Barcelona was actively pursuing a left-footed centre-back option. These developments have forced Deco to intensify recruitment efforts as the transfer window deadline approaches.
Barcelona has identified Ruud Nijstad, an 18-year-old Dutch defender from FC Twente, as a primary target. Standing 1.95 metres tall and boasting left-footed credentials, Nijstad represents the club’s preference for young talent with significant developmental potential. Director Deco and head of scouting Joao Amaral have made multiple visits to meet with the player’s representatives, demonstrating the organization’s serious interest in the prospect.
While Barcelona recently finalized an agreement for 16-year-old German centre-back Mikael Baza from Hamburg, this youth acquisition does not alter first-team plans. Deco remains committed to finding an experienced young defender capable of strengthening manager Hansi Flick’s immediate options before the transfer window closes.
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Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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