Dean Huijsen: Real Madrid reported to be closing in on Chelsea and Liverpool transfer target | OneFootball

The defender could return to Spain for the first time since his academy days despite fielding heavy interest from Premier League sides

On the move: Real Madrid prepare to move for Dean Huijsen

Getty Images

Real Madrid have reportedly informed Bournemouth they are willing to pay defender Dean Huijsen’s £50million release clause as they look to beat several Premier League clubs to his signature.

It is understood that Huijsen’s preference would be to move to the Spanish capital, though, rather than joining another Premier League side.

The Spaniard signed to the Cherries from Juventus last summer and has impressed in his debut campaign, keeping seven clean sheets in 30 Premier League appearances as Bournemouth look to finish in European positions.

He fast became a fixture of Andoni Iraola’s side and has courted transfer interest from a wide variety of clubs, with Chelsea, Liverpool, and Arsenal previously thought to have been leading the race. His performances have also earned him a call-up to the Spanish national team, making his senior debut in March.

To sign for Los Blancos would mark Huijsen’s first return to Spanish football since he left Segunda Division side Malaga CF’s academy in 2021.

He has given little away as to his preferred destination. After Bournemouth beat Arsenal 2-1 at the Emirates earlier this month, he said he was happy with life on the South Coast.

Asked whether he felt any pressure as a result of the transfer speculation, the 20-year-old said: “I think I am pretty relaxed. I am just a chill guy.

“I don't really think about it too much. I go to training every morning, we have a great group, great staff, and I just enjoy my football and myself.

“At the moment, I am just having fun playing football, and it's going well, so I am really happy.”