The summer transfer window is poised for a blockbuster showdown, with Arsenal and Liverpool gearing up to trigger the £50 million release clause of Bournemouth’s sensational centre-back, Dean Huijsen. The 20-year-old Spaniard has emerged as one of the Premier League’s brightest defensive talents, but his heart is reportedly set on a dream move to Real Madrid, adding a tantalizing twist to this high-stakes transfer saga.
Huijsen’s meteoric rise began when he swapped Juventus for Bournemouth last summer in a modest £12 million deal. Since then, the young defender has transformed into a cornerstone of Andoni Iraola’s Cherries, earning praise for his composure, versatility, and two-footedness. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with Arsenal, Liverpool, and Chelsea all ready to pounce on his £50 million release clause. “Chelsea, Liverpool, and Arsenal are ready to trigger £50m clause getting deal done this month, trying to agree with player’s camp,” a recent update revealed, underscoring the urgency of the race. However, Real Madrid’s interest looms large, as the Spanish giants view Huijsen as a prime target to bolster their backline under incoming manager Xabi Alonso.
For Arsenal, Huijsen represents a strategic addition to Mikel Arteta’s squad. The Gunners, perennial contenders for the Premier League title, are keen to reinforce their defense with a player who can seamlessly slot into their high-pressing system. Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta have reportedly held extensive talks with Huijsen’s representatives, signaling their intent to secure his signature. The £50 million clause is seen as a bargain for a player of Huijsen’s potential, especially given his ability to play on either side of central defense. Arsenal’s pursuit is further fueled by the need for quality depth, with injuries exposing vulnerabilities in their backline this season.
Liverpool, meanwhile, see Huijsen as a long-term successor to Virgil van Dijk, whose contract situation remains unresolved. The Reds, under Arne Slot, have dominated the Premier League but are planning for the future. “Liverpool are among the most serious suitors, viewing Huijsen as a potential long-term replacement for Virgil van Dijk,” an insider noted. The Merseyside club’s financial muscle makes the £50 million fee manageable, and their interest has been consistent since Huijsen’s breakout campaign. With Slot’s tactical acumen, Huijsen could thrive at Anfield, where his ball-playing ability would complement Liverpool’s dynamic style.
Yet, Huijsen’s own ambitions complicate the picture. The Spanish international, born in the Netherlands, has made no secret of his admiration for Real Madrid. “Real Madrid know the player dreams of the move, as internal talks are taking place with Xabi Alonso on new CB,” a source close to the situation disclosed. Madrid’s appeal is undeniable, with the club reportedly exploring a deal that could see the £50 million clause paid in three installments, easing their financial burden. Huijsen’s father has also publicly affirmed his son’s preference for the Bernabeu, even over lucrative offers from the Premier League.
Chelsea, though slightly behind in the race, remain a threat, with their aggressive recruitment strategy under Enzo Maresca. Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich, and Barcelona have also been linked, but the Premier League trio and Real Madrid are the frontrunners. For Bournemouth, losing Huijsen would be a blow, but the £50 million windfall would allow Iraola to reinvest in his squad. The Cherries’ firm stance on the release clause ensures they hold the upper hand in negotiations, forcing suitors to meet their demands.
As the transfer window nears, the battle for Huijsen’s signature is heating up. Arsenal and Liverpool are prepared to act swiftly, but Real Madrid’s allure could prove decisive. “Huijsen has attracted interest from several clubs ahead of the summer transfer window,” a report emphasized, highlighting the global demand for the young defender. For Huijsen, the decision will hinge on balancing his boyhood dream with the promise of immediate playing time and development in the Premier League. Will he chase glory with Madrid, or will the pull of England’s top clubs win out? The race is open, and football fans are on the edge of their seats.