The January transfer window has started, but Real Madrid, the reigning La Liga champions, are targeting the summer transfer window in 2025. They want to strengthen their defensive line, and as per the latest reports from Fichajes, the Los Blancos have their eyes set on the Bournemouth centre-back, Dean Huijsen. They want to secure his signing to build the backline for the future.
Dean Huijsen has been one of the best young defenders in the English Premier League
The player moved to Bournemouth from Juventus for a fee of around €15 million. However, since then he has moulded himself into one of the best young defenders in the Premier League. He is just 19 years old but has the composure and skill of any prime defender. This has attracted the attention of the scouts from Los Blancos. He will not just help defensively but also contribute to scoring goals through headers from set-pieces.
There are some notable reasons why Madrid wants Huijsen. Both their defenders, Eder Militao and David Alaba, are over 30 years old and are also nursing injuries. They have become injury-prone, and the clubs need replacements for them. Moreover, given the age and talent of the Bournemouth kid, he will seamlessly fit into Madrid’s strategy of investing in youth and nurturing them. Huijsen can play both centrally and also at the left side of the defence. His versatile skillset will help Los Blancos in squad planning.
Will Real Madrid pay €60 million?
Bournemouth have set a price tag of €60 million for their prized asset, and this is where doubt creeps in. Madrid are not sure if they want to spend that much on a 19-year-old. On one end, it will be an investment in a player who has the talent and the prime years ahead of him. He can go on to serve Madrid for a long time. On the other hand, spending such a big amount on one player will hamper their plans for reinforcements in other areas.
Huijsen is a quality young defender. He has the height and so is good in the air. Huijsen is calm on the ball and this is a very important trait for modern defenders. He has international experience with the Spanish U-21 team, hence speaks volumes about his quality and capability.
So, the move will look strategic if Madrid views it as an investment for the future in their defensive line. However, the move will also depend on his immediate impact and how much confidence Carlo Ancelotti’s side can invest in the youngster.
