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Real Madrid are poised to finalize the signing of highly-rated Bournemouth centre-back Dean Huijsen, after agreeing to meet the defender’s £50 million release clause, according to veteran football journalist David Ornstein.
The 20-year-old Spain international, who only joined Bournemouth from Juventus last summer for £12.6 million, has rapidly become one of Europe’s most sought-after young defenders. Real Madrid’s swift action will see them beat off competition from top Premier League clubs, including Chelsea, Arsenal, Liverpool, and Newcastle.
Deal Structured in Instalments; Former Clubs to Benefit
Madrid’s offer will be paid in three instalments, and the fee is structured to include additional incentives based on performance. As part of the arrangement, former clubs Juventus and Malaga will also benefit from the transfer — set to receive 10% and 5%, respectively, due to sell-on clauses agreed in earlier deals.
The full agreement between Huijsen and Real Madrid is said to be close, with personal terms nearly finalized. A formal announcement is expected in the coming days.
Huijsen Chooses Spain Over Premier League Return
Despite major interest from English giants, Huijsen has opted for a return to Spain, where he spent a large part of his youth career playing for Costa Unida CF and Malaga before moving to Juventus at the age of 16.
The decision to join Madrid is seen as a homecoming of sorts and a significant career milestone for the Netherlands-born defender, who made his Spain senior debut earlier this year.
Bournemouth to Make Massive Profit
The transfer represents a huge financial windfall for Bournemouth, who signed Huijsen for a modest fee under £13 million less than a year ago. With the total package potentially rising above £50 million with add-ons, the club is set to quadruple their investment.
Huijsen’s development under manager Andoni Iraola has been remarkable. He made 34 appearances in his debut Premier League season, scoring three goals and becoming a key figure in the Cherries’ backline following an injury to Marcos Senesi.
Standout Season in Premier League Garners Global Attention
Huijsen’s performances in the Premier League didn’t go unnoticed. His towering header against Tottenham in December was a signature moment, highlighting his aerial prowess, positional awareness, and confidence on the ball — attributes that have drawn comparisons to top defenders like Raphaël Varane and Matthijs de Ligt.
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In a campaign where he consistently performed against top-tier opposition, Huijsen also showcased leadership and composure, prompting scouts from across Europe to take notice.
Madrid’s Second Premier League Signing of the Summer
Once completed, Huijsen’s arrival will mark Real Madrid’s second major signing from the Premier League this summer. The Spanish giants are also expected to secure the signing of Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool, as part of an ambitious overhaul led by incoming manager Xabi Alonso.
The dual signings reflect a strategic investment in youth, with Madrid focused on building a squad for the future while maintaining the club’s elite competitiveness.
Part of Xabi Alonso’s Defensive Rebuild
With Xabi Alonso set to take over managerial duties at the Bernabéu, Huijsen’s signing is a cornerstone of a larger defensive rebuild. Alonso, known for his tactical acumen and focus on structured, ball-playing defenders, is said to have personally identified Huijsen as a long-term solution at centre-back.
Huijsen will likely be integrated alongside Éder Militão, David Alaba, and Antonio Rüdiger, giving Alonso a dynamic mix of youth and experience in the heart of the defence.
Madrid Eyeing FIFA Club World Cup With Strengthened Squad
Madrid are pushing to complete the deal before next month’s inaugural FIFA Club World Cup, set to be held in the United States. The tournament is expected to serve as a platform for new signings to integrate quickly and for the squad to fine-tune under Alonso’s leadership.
The addition of Huijsen gives Real Madrid defensive depth and future stability as the club prepares to compete on multiple fronts next season, including La Liga, Champions League, and the new global club tournament.
