Barcelona face rising competition for highly rated Twente defender Rod Nystad

Barcelona’s plans to sign Twente defender Rod Nystad face growing competition after Manchester United joined the race for the 18-year-old Netherlands youth prospect.

According to Sport, Manchester United have received positive reports on Nystad’s ability and their scouts hold the teenager in high regard. Six other Premier League clubs are also monitoring the centre-back: Manchester City, Aston Villa, Newcastle United, Brentford, Everton and Sunderland.

The increased interest could make the deal significantly more expensive for Barcelona, who attempted to secure Nystad during the summer. The Catalan club reportedly offered about €8m for the defender, but Twente rejected the proposal.

Twente regard Nystad as one of the promising players capable of becoming part of the club’s future and do not feel under pressure to sell him quickly. His contract runs until June 2029, strengthening the Dutch club’s negotiating position and reducing the need to accept an immediate offer.

Nystad stands 1.95m tall and is left-footed. He is also noted for his ability to begin attacks from defence and for his physical strength, qualities that have attracted Barcelona’s sporting department as it looks to add young defenders with long-term potential.

Barcelona’s interest is not new. Contact between the two parties has taken place in recent months, while Nystad has spoken publicly about the Spanish club’s attention.

The defender described Barcelona as one of the biggest clubs in the world, suggesting he could be receptive to a move to the club. However, Manchester United’s involvement and the interest from the other Premier League sides have created a fresh obstacle for Barcelona.

The competition leaves the Spanish club facing a more challenging negotiation than it had anticipated. With Twente under no immediate financial or sporting pressure to part with Nystad, the growing number of interested English clubs could further raise the cost of a player Barcelona have already tried to sign.