Milos Kerkez and Dean Huijsen. (AFC Bournemouth/Getty)
After yet another tough campaign plagued by defensive frailties and recurring injuries—conceding over 40 goals for the third consecutive season—Chelsea are eager to shore up their backline this summer, with a top-tier centre-back high on the agenda.
According to a new report from The Independent, Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen has emerged as the club’s top target.
The Dutch-born Spaniard has been one of the Premier League’s standout performers this season, playing a key role in Bournemouth’s unexpected push for European football and earning his first senior call-up to the Spain national team.
His impressive displays haven’t gone unnoticed, attracting interest from European heavyweights such as Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Liverpool, and Arsenal. However, The Independent reports that Huijsen is leaning towards staying in the Premier League and is “seriously considering” a move to Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea are reportedly ready to meet the 22-year-old’s £50 million release clause and are prepared to offer him a lengthy seven-year deal, consistent with the club’s long-term approach to securing rising stars, as seen with the likes of Nicolas Jackson, Cole Palmer, and Enzo Fernandez.
Huijsen remains coy on Bournemouth future
Huijsen—once described by his former Juventus boss Max Allegri as a “serene” defender in the mould of club legend Ciro Ferrara—is well aware that he’s attracting interest from several of Europe’s elite clubs.
In a recent interview with Sky Sports, the 22-year-old remained coy about his future but didn’t rule out a move away from Dean Court this summer.
“I’m very calm. I don’t really focus on it. Now is not the time. I’m just focused on finishing the season well,” he said.
Huijsen also revealed that his father, who serves as his agent, is handling any off-field matters: “My dad is my agent, he fixes everything. I don’t read anything, I don’t think about it too much. I’m just focusing on my football and working hard.”
When pressed on the reported £50 million release clause in his contract, he simply stated: “I’m just focused on making history at this club.”
While it’s understood that Huijsen would prefer to remain in the Premier League if he moves this summer, he did drop a notable hint about his admiration for Real Madrid during a separate appearance on El Chiringuito, as reported by Tribuna.
Asked who his footballing idol was growing up, Huijsen replied: “[Sergio] Ramos, since I was young.”
And when questioned about Real Madrid’s manager, he added: “I think [Carlo Ancelotti] is a very good coach. He’s not at Madrid for nothing. He has his merit.”
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