The Athletic: Man Utd tracking £15m teenager who could inherit Lisandro’s role

Manchester United are reportedly among several clubs that have registered their interest in young Dutch defender Ruud Nijstad.

The Red Devils are expected to bolster their defensive ranks next year after sitting on their laurels in the summer.

In addition to addressing their full-back woes, at least one new centre-back is required, especially with Lisandro Martinez seemingly on his way out of the club after his shocking rant following last week’s defeat to Atletico Madrid.

Man Utd turn to Nisjtad as potential Martinez replacement

While the latest reports in the British media claim Man Utd could decide to trigger Lisandro’s automatic one-year renewal, the two parties are still expected to split paths. INEOS simply want to guarantee themselves a return instead of losing the Argentine for free.

Therefore, Jason Wilcox and Christopher Vivell are already scanning the market for new faces. According to The Athletic, Nijstad has been attracting interest from some of the biggest clubs in Europe, including MUFC.

The 18-year-old is a technically gifted Dutch centre-back blessed with a large frame (1.95 cm). The teenager rose through the ranks of FC Twente and became a member of the first team in the summer of 2025.

Nijstad is now considered a stalwart at the back for the Eredivisie club and is tipped to become a key figure with the Netherlands in the coming years.

Is Ruud Nijstad the profile for Man United

If Martinez indeed ends up leaving the club, Man Utd will need a new left-footed centre-back, and Nijstad fits the bill in this regard.

Moreover, his imposing physique means he’s unlikely to struggle in aerial duels like the 28-year-old Argentine, who was infamously outmuscled by Dominic Solanke, costing United two crucial points against Tottenham.

Nijstad would also have the opportunity to work alongside his compatriot Matthijs de Ligt, who can act as his mentor.

That being said, United already have young centre-backs in Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven, so one would imagine that the manager, whoever he may be, would prefer a more accomplished figure at the back, especially if Harry Maguire walks away as well.