Interest is rapidly growing around Bologna FC's centre-back Sam Beukema, as Premier League scouts, including those from Chelsea, closely monitor his performances. According to reports, scouts were present at Bologna's recent 2-1 victory over AC Milan on February 28, 2025, showcasing Beukema's rising prominence within European football.
Beukema, who has been with Bologna since 2023 after transferring from AZ Alkmaar, has established himself as a key figure at the heart of the defense. The 26-year-old featured prominently alongside Nicolo Casale during the match against AC Milan, helping his team to clinch three points after recovering from a first-half setback. Notably, Beukema received commendation for his performance, earning an average rating of 7/10 from the Italian press.
Aside from Chelsea, Beukema's talents have drawn interest from several top clubs, including Juventus, Inter Milan, and Atletico Madrid, all reportedly eager to secure his transfer as the summer transfer window approaches. The increasing attention on Beukema highlights his significant impact on Bologna's season, where he has played a pivotal role, aiding the team’s effort to qualify for the UEFA Champions League.
His contributions this season have been exceptional, with Beukema making eight appearances during the Champions League campaign, including matches against prominent teams such as Liverpool and Aston Villa. Bologna currently finds themselves seventh in Serie A, as they chase qualification for European competitions next season, pressuring their management to retain standout players like Beukema amid growing transfer interest.
Reflecting on his aspirations, Beukema expressed his ambitions for the future. He stated, "I also have ambitions and hope one day to be able to play maybe in the Premier League or another big club." This statement shows his desire to compete at the highest level as he navigates his football career.
Prior to joining Bologna, Beukema was linked with Liverpool, stemming from the admiration of Reds' boss Arne Slot. Slot revealed his intentions to recruit Beukema during his tenure as manager at Feyenoord, calling him “a very good player” and reminiscing about his performance during his stint at Go Ahead Eagles. Slot lamented, "I think he chose the wrong club, because Feyenoord did a lot besser than AZ! But, in the end, he made a nice transfer to Bologna, where he is also doing well."
Despite Slot’s interest, Beukema opted for AZ Alkmaar. He elaborated on this decision during an interview, citing concerns about the commitment of some players at Feyenoord during their difficult prior season and how it influenced his choice. His reflections on the matter provide insight not only on his decision-making process but also on his high standards for team dynamics.
Beukema remains under contract with Bologna until the summer of 2027, which may play a significant role as clubs eye him for potential transfer negotiations. His contract situation adds layers to the mounting interest, making it likely for discussions to intensify as the summer market opens.
With scouts from top clubs taking notice, Beukema's future at Bologna may be uncertain, but the insights from his performances and the growth he has demonstrated throughout the season position him well for impactful career moves. Football analysts are eager to see how this narrative develops, especially if the contention for Beukema’s signature leads to fierce competition among Europe’s elite clubs.
The football world will undoubtedly keep watch on Beukema’s next steps. Hailing from Bologna, where he has carved out his space among competitive talents, Beukema’s ambition and performance suggest he is now set on transitioning to potentially glittering horizons within the Premier League or possibly with other major European sides as his profile grows.