Real Madrid Close to Landing £50M Defensive Star Dean Huijsen
A major transfer breakthrough is reportedly on the horizon for Real Madrid as the club closes in on one of their top summer priorities — highly-rated Bournemouth center-back Dean Huijsen.
Valued at approximately €50 million (£50 million), the move is nearing its final stages as talks have significantly accelerated in recent days, according to renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano.
The 19-year-old Spanish defender has been identified as a key piece in Real Madrid’s plans to reinforce their defense, and the club’s urgency reflects their intent to wrap up the signing before the summer window gains further momentum.
Los Blancos are understood to have made a formal approach to Huijsen’s representatives and reportedly triggered his £50 million release clause, as per multiple trusted outlets, including PSGTalk and TalkSPORT.
This aggressive move has allowed Madrid to pull ahead of several top European clubs — including Liverpool, Arsenal, and Chelsea — who were also monitoring the talented center-back.
However, Real Madrid’s swift negotiations and financial readiness appear to have given them the edge.
They are now in advanced stages of finalizing the deal, which could be officially confirmed in the coming days.
Why Dean Huijsen Fits Real Madrid’s Vision
At just 19 years old, Huijsen already features regularly in the Premier League, showcasing maturity and composure well beyond his years.
His performances for Bournemouth during the 2024/25 season have made him one of the most talked-about young defenders in Europe.
Defensively, Huijsen shines with a tackle success rate of 61.6% and an average of 2.2 interceptions per game — stats that place him among the top young defenders in the league.
His arrival would give Real Madrid much-needed depth in the center-back position, especially with an eye on the long-term future.
With veterans like Eder Militao, Antonio Rudiger, and David Alaba entering the latter stages of their careers, Huijsen offers youthful energy and high potential.
He’s also well-suited for the 3-4-3 formation reportedly favored by incoming manager Xabi Alonso, who values defenders capable of playing out from the back with composure and vision.
Deal Structure and Timeline
While the deal is expected to be completed soon, reports suggest the £50 million release clause will be paid in structured installments.
The club is aiming to have the deal wrapped up before the start of the FIFA Club World Cup, which kicks off on June 15 — a tournament where squad depth will be essential.
Alongside Huijsen, Real Madrid are also pushing for Álvaro Carreras in a €50 million deal, reinforcing their strategy of blending elite youth signings with existing star talent.
This dual approach demonstrates the club’s commitment to both present success and future dominance.
The Bigger Picture
If finalized, the signing of Dean Huijsen won’t just be another defensive addition — it will be a significant statement of ambition.
Bringing in a young, homegrown talent for a substantial fee showcases Madrid’s long-term planning and their drive to remain at the top of European football.
With official confirmation possibly arriving any day now, all eyes are on Real Madrid as they prepare to announce what could be one of the biggest defensive transfers of the summer window.
