Arsenal and Manchester United have entered the race alongside Real Madrid to secure the signature of Bournemouth’s rising star, Dean Huijsen.
Arsenal, Manchester United, and Real Madrid are vying to sign 19-year-old Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen, who is impressing in the Premier League window, who has been a standout performer under manager Andoni Iraola this season.
Standing at an imposing 6 ft 5 in, Huijsen has quickly made his mark in the Premier League. Not only has he delivered commanding defensive displays, but he’s also contributed crucial goals, including a recent header against Tottenham that made him Bournemouth’s youngest-ever Premier League goalscorer.
Huijsen’s impressive form has caught the attention of top European clubs. According to Spanish outlet AS, Real Madrid, who have monitored Huijsen since his youth days, are now facing competition from Arsenal and Manchester United.
Both Premier League giants have reportedly made initial enquiries about his contract situation, though formal negotiations have yet to begin.
Madrid’s pursuit of Huijsen comes as Carlo Ancelotti seeks defensive reinforcements following injuries to key players like David Alaba, Dani Carvajal, and Eder Militao, as well as Nacho’s recent departure.
While the Spanish giants are also targeting high-profile names such as Trent Alexander-Arnold, Alphonso Davies, and Aymeric Laporte, Huijsen’s potential makes him an appealing long-term prospect.
Arsenal and United, however, could challenge Madrid’s plans. The two English clubs are eager to bolster their defensive ranks and view Huijsen as a future star.
Both teams have already established themselves as serious competitors in transfer battles, as seen in United’s recent acquisition of Leny Yoro, beating Madrid with a £52 million bid.
Bournemouth, meanwhile, are under no pressure to sell the Spain U21 international, as Huijsen is contracted until 2030. Head coach Andoni Iraola praised the youngster after his side’s victory over Tottenham, highlighting his maturity and all-around contributions.
“For someone who is 19, what Huijsen is doing in the Premier League is really amazing,” Iraola told BBC Sport. “He showed what we know he has: good ability on the ball, strong personality, and solid defensive work. Adding a goal to that performance was just the icing on the cake.”
With Europe’s elite circling, Bournemouth face a tough challenge to hold onto one of the Premier League’s most promising young defenders.