Ruud Nijstad: Manchester United and Bayern Munich in mix for FC Twente player

Manchester United and Bayern Munich are monitoring FC Twente centre-back Ruud Nijstad, 18, who signed a new contract until 2029 in July but has attracted interest from top European clubs.

Manchester United and Bayern Munich have FC Twente's Ruud Nijstad on their transfer radar as they look to strengthen their defence. The 18-year-old centre-back has impressed in the Eredivisie, playing 1,485 minutes in 17 matches this season after graduating from Twente's youth system.

Nijstad attracted interest from Chelsea and Manchester City in April, and he indicated he would either move in the summer or sign a new contract. He chose to stay, signing a new deal until 2029 in July. However, interest from top European clubs has continued, with Manchester United and Bayern Munich now among those monitoring the defender.

Former former Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag, now Twente's technical director, confirmed the interest. "Several clubs from the top 8 in Europe have made concrete offers," he said. "But he simply made a very conscious choice to play for FC Twente this season." Transfermarkt values Nijstad at €18m, and Twente are likely to demand a club-record fee to sell him.