The player Barcelona have identified in the Dutch club is a top centre-back prospect Ruud Nijstad, who also happens to be a left-footed player. As is common knowledge, quality left-footed centre-backs are hard to come across and are critical for Barcelona's style. He is just 18 years of age and already a regular in the senior team, and his current contract with Twente runs until the summer of 2027.
His left-footed profile, style of play, and tactical reading make him the closest match to what Iñigo offered, but with even more dynamism. Schlotterbeck is widely praised for his superb ability to break lines with pinpoint passes, carrying an "exquisite left foot" that allows him to deliver long balls with ease. His natural aggressiveness, commanding duels, and quick recovery pace make him an ideal partner for a ball-playing defender like Cubarsi.
I never got a feeling he was going to leave. Farke made him feel wanted. I don't think that'll [new contract] be far off. He's a fabulous player. He does attract interest. You know, Leeds have to be careful. We know the likes of Brighton have looked at him in the past and you know, if they lose a Jan Paul van Hecke, would they look at Struijk?
