Real Madrid step up Dean Huijsen transfer pursuit to leave Arsenal, Chelsea & Liverpool waiting in hope move for Bournemouth star collapses

According to Relevo, the La Liga giants are intensifying their interest in Huijsen, which could dash the hopes of several Premier League sides who have been monitoring the highly rated youngster. Los Blancos have already reached "an agreement in principle" with the player and are dealing with Bournemouth to close the transfer.

The 20-year-old centre-back has a release clause set at £50 million ($65m), and his standout performances this season have only strengthened his position as one of Europe’s most coveted young defenders.

Liverpool have shown sustained interest in Huijsen since April, viewing him as a long-term asset in their backline. Chelsea have also made enquiries, while Arsenal remain firmly in contention for the Spain international. Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur have also kept tabs on the defender, who has quickly made his mark in the Premier League since arriving in England. Despite all the interest from English clubs, Huijsen is reportedly leaning toward a move to the Santiago Bernabéu.

Real Madrid’s pursuit of Huijsen comes amid an ongoing injury crisis in their defensive ranks. Currently, Raul Asencio is the only fit centre-back available to manager Carlo Ancelotti as Antonio Rudiger, David Alaba, and Eder Militao are all sidelined. Rudiger and Alaba have recently undergone surgeries and are both in their early 30s, raising questions about long-term reliability. Militao, although younger at 27, is recovering from his second anterior cruciate ligament injury, further complicating Madrid’s defensive outlook.

Huijsen represents a rare blend of youth, experience, and tactical versatility. Despite being just 20, he has adapted seamlessly to the Premier League and shown qualities that suggest he could grow into a commanding presence in Madrid’s defence for years to come.

Given his Spanish national team credentials, prior development in Italy with Juventus, and quick adjustment to English football, the Dutch-born defender ticks all the boxes for Los Blancos. The fact that he is reportedly open to a move to Spain only boosts Madrid’s hopes of sealing a deal ahead of the competition.