Real Madrid Rebuffs Aston Villa’s €40m Ambitious Move For Spanish Prodigy: Big Setback For The Lions? | OneFootball

According to a report from the Spanish outlet Fichajes, Real Madrid recently rejected a substantial €40 million bid from Aston Villa and Newcastle United for defender Dean Huijsen. Unai Emery’s side is currently fighting a fierce battle for UEFA Champions League qualification. They identified the 20-year-old as a primary target to strengthen their backline.

Aston Villa and their interest in Dean Huijsen

The report asserts that the Villa hierarchy moved quickly to test Madrid’s resolve. They hoped to lure the youngster back to the Premier League, where he previously shone. However, the Spanish giants firmly told both English clubs that they have no plans to negotiate for the player. This rejection highlights how hard it is for Villa to secure top talent mid-season. This comes even as they try to bolster their squad for a top-four push.

The situation surrounding Huijsen remains one to watch since he only just arrived at the Santiago Bernabéu. The Spain international joined Madrid from Bournemouth in the summer of 2025. The report claims the fee was much higher than what the clubs offered.

MADRID, SPAIN – FEBRUARY 01: Dean Huijsen of Real Madrid in action during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Real Madrid CF and Rayo Vallecano de Madrid at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on February 01, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

He has faced a challenging start in Spain and often moves in and out of the starting lineup. Even so, the club sees him as a long-term investment. Selling a player like him would look like Madrid admitting they made a mistake too early.

He is a ball-playing centre-back. The youngster has a ton of potential. The club believe he will improve fast with more coaching and game time in La Liga. So, Madrid bosses shot down the idea of a sale. They aren’t willing to take a financial hit so soon after buying him.

What should be Villa’s new plan?

From Aston Villa’s perspective, the failed move shows they have big goals. But it also means they have to find a new plan fast. Huijsen would have been a great signing. He has the technical skill to play out from the back that Emery wants from his defenders.

Since he has played in the Premier League before, he likely would have handled the physical side of the English game right away. Now, the club have to find other targets in the summer who can bring that same quality.

The team have done a great job to get where they are. Still, a lack of defensive cover could ruin their season if players get injured. Villa need a defender who can help right now. While Huijsen was the perfect fit, the club have no other options right now as the January window is already over.