Chelsea has entered the race alongside Arsenal, Manchester United, and Bayern Munich to sign AFC Bournemouth’s rising star, Dean Huijsen.
Reports reveal that a release clause in the 19-year-old defender’s contract will activate this summer, potentially setting the stage for a high-stakes transfer battle.
Since joining Bournemouth from Juventus last summer in an €18.2m deal, Huijsen has become a pivotal figure in the Cherries’ resurgence. His formidable partnership with Illia Zabarnyi has transformed Bournemouth into a defensive powerhouse.
The team has conceded the fewest goals in the Premier League over their last 11 matches, propelling them to within a point of the top four as February approaches.
Huijsen’s standout performances, which include goals in victories against Tottenham and Manchester United, have solidified his reputation as one of Europe’s top young defenders.
With Bournemouth chasing European football and battling injuries, the club is determined to retain him until the season ends.
Despite Bournemouth’s resistance to a January sale, interest in Huijsen is surging. Spanish outlets previously linked Real Madrid to the Dutchman, while Arsenal and Manchester United have reportedly made inquiries.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has now confirmed Chelsea’s growing admiration for the player, placing him high on their list of defensive targets.
Bayern Munich has also entered the fray, contacting Bournemouth to assess Huijsen’s availability. While a winter departure seems unlikely, Romano revealed that a release clause will activate in the summer. According to reports, this clause is set above €60m (£50m), giving Bournemouth significant leverage.
Huijsen remains under contract at Bournemouth until 2030, having scored crucial goals and delivered consistent defensive displays this season. The Cherries hope to hold onto him through their push for European qualification, but his release clause could lead to a major bidding war when the summer window opens.
With Europe’s top clubs circling, Bournemouth faces a challenge in keeping their star defender. Will Chelsea or another giant swoop in to trigger the release clause, or can the Cherries find a way to hold onto their prized asset?