A highly-coveted Dutch defender has sealed a major move to FC Barcelona, strengthening the club’s defensive line.
The left-footed centre-back, who underwent his medical in Barcelona this week, will officially join Barça Atlètic after signing at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper.
This operation fits Deco’s aggressive recruitment of defensive prospects, beating competition from AC Milan and securing a key piece for Hansi Flick’s future backline.
That talent is Juwensley Onstein, the towering Netherlands U18 international whose priority was always Barcelona despite attractive offers elsewhere, as confirmed by Fabrizio Romano.
The 188cm defender began at Vitesse before four years in Ajax’s academy, moving to Genk as a free agent, where he’s shone for Jong Genk reserves.
Onstein rejected Italian advances, swayed by Barça’s development pathway and playing philosophy—starting with Juliano Belletti’s side, eyeing first-team call-ups.
This completes Barcelona’s defensive youth overhaul alongside imminent arrivals of Hamza Abdelkarim (Al Ahly) and Patricio Pacifico (Defensor Sporting), plus ongoing Ruud Nijstad talks.
Onstein’s profile—left-footed, ball-playing, physically imposing—perfectly addresses first-team gaps where Gerard Martín struggles centrally.
Barça’s scouting under Joao Amorim emphasizes early strikes before rivals circle, securing high-upside talents at low cost.
Onstein’s choice underscores La Masia’s global pull. Ajax pedigree, Genk maturity, and Dutch youth caps position him as a Pau Cubarsí successor prospect.
Flick’s high-line demands left-sided centre-backs who progress play; Onstein’s toolkit fits seamlessly.
Medical passed, contract imminent—he’ll train immediately, targeting promotion with Atlètic while monitored by senior staff.
Deco’s window showcases ruthless efficiency: four defensive signings, offsetting exits like Sergi Domínguez.
Barcelona top La Liga, chase Champions League top-eight versus Copenhagen.
Onstein represents their future—another Dutch gem following Frenkie de Jong, potentially anchoring Flick’s dynasty for a decade.
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