In the rapidly evolving world of football, 19-year-old Dean Huijsen of Bournemouth is increasingly becoming a prominent name, especially with the latest buzz surrounding his potential transfer to Real Madrid. Huijsen, a talented centre-back who has cemented his place in Bournemouth's defense, expressed his excitement about being linked to one of the most successful clubs in history.
On March 19, 2025, Huijsen said, "It's an honour to have such a big team interested in you; it's something special and it means you're doing well." The Amsterdam-born player recently received his first call-up to the Spanish national team, culminating a remarkable debut season in the Premier League. While Bournemouth's gaffer Andoni Iraola initially hesitated to include him as a starter after his transfer from Juventus, a standout performance against Tottenham Hotspur turned the tide.
During that match in December 2024, Huijsen scored the lone goal, a pivotal moment that not only shaped Bournemouth's victory but also secured his starting position ever since. The young defender's rise has not gone unnoticed, as clubs like Manchester United and Chelsea have begun to circle, but it's Real Madrid that seems to have struck a chord with him.
Reflecting back on his decision to choose Juventus over Real Madrid when he left Malaga's youth system in 2021, Huijsen detailed his thought process. "I think it was a measured decision. Because of Italy's reputation, I wanted to go to Juventus, where [Giorgio] Chiellini, [Leonardo] Bonucci, [Andrea] Barzagli, and other historic centre-backs were. I wanted to learn defensive skills, which is also learned in Spain, but there you work harder. I think it was the right decision," he explained. His time at Juventus was marred by tumultuous circumstances; the club forced him to train alone before ultimately moving him to Bournemouth for a fee of €15.2m (£12.7m) plus add-ons.
Huijsen's contract with Bournemouth includes a release clause valued at £50m, which positions him as an attractive target for clubs looking for youthful talent. Clubs like Arsenal and Liverpool are also searching for top defenders, with reports suggesting exorbitant fees for players like William Saliba and Ibrahima Konate. It makes Huijsen's proposed price point relatively affordable for a player whose talents have been on full display this season.
As if the transfer speculation wasn’t enough, the footballing world is increasingly captivated by Huijsen's journey from a young boy making his way through Spain's youth systems to now being on the cusp of representing his country at the senior level. He could manifest his senior debut against his nation of birth, the Netherlands, in the upcoming Nations League quarter-finals. Addressing these developments, Huijsen remarked, "It makes you proud to have such a big team interested in you. It's special and means you're doing well. I've had good coaches. Iraola has been a great influence on me. Before, I was with Mourinho, De Rossi, Allegri… I can only be grateful to them for giving me opportunities. I’ve learned something from all of them."
Furthermore, if Tottenham Hotspur opts to make a move for Huijsen under new management next season, his prospects may further change. Speculation indicates that Spurs’ interest could grow stronger depending on managerial shifts within the club. If the current coach Ange Postecoglou is let go, Huijsen’s connection with Iraola may reignite the possibility of transferring to Spurs if a deal is put forward.
As Huijsen’s star continues to shine bright, potential suitors are paying close attention — not just for his on-pitch capabilities but also for the impact he has made in his short career thus far. How will the burgeoning centre-back handle the weight of expectations? The coming months could redefine not only his personal career trajectory but the landscape of central defenders across Europe.
All in all, Dean Huijsen’s path from uncertainty at Juventus to the limelight in Bournemouth demonstrates remarkable resilience and talent. His story is one of determination, skill, and the promise of greater heights to come as the summer transfer window approaches.
