In a whirlwind transfer saga filled with Premier League giants, power plays, and late plot twists, Real Madrid emerged victorious in the pursuit of Dean Huijsen, one of Europe’s brightest defensive prospects. Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea, and several other heavyweights pursued the 20-year-old, but the outcome was rooted in a story that began long before his meteoric rise. This wasn’t just about matching clauses or promises—it was about history, conviction, and a long-standing vision.
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An Early Obsession: Madrid’s First Look at Huijsen
Dean Huijsen first appeared on Real Madrid’s radar not in the spotlight of Serie A or the Premier League but on the modest pitches of Malaga’s under-15 side. The club’s academy scout Alfredo Merino issued a simple, emphatic report: “FICHAR”—sign him. That verdict came in 2020, long before Europe’s elite recognized his talents.
By the age of 16, Huijsen visited Valdebebas, Madrid’s state-of-the-art training facility, during the pandemic. The stage was set, but he walked away without a deal, eventually opting for Juventus, where a youth-focused project led by Matteo Tognozzi impressed the player and his family.
Turin’s Loss, Madrid’s Gain
Juventus secured Huijsen in 2021, envisioning him as a Next Gen pillar. Yet three years later, the Italian club curiously offloaded him to Bournemouth for just £12.8 million. Despite sparking his development and introducing him to Giorgio Chiellini upon arrival—a symbol of long-term commitment—Juventus ultimately sacrificed their gem during a cost-cutting spree.
That decision looked shortsighted when Jose Mourinho, while at Roma, praised Huijsen as “one of the highest-quality prospects in European football at his age.” His successor Daniele De Rossi echoed the sentiment, predicting, “In a few years, we’ll be asking him (Huijsen) for tickets to go to see the Champions League final.”
Bournemouth: The Unexpected Springboard
Bournemouth’s decision to swoop in last summer came courtesy of Tiago Pinto, formerly of Roma. He had witnessed Huijsen’s promise firsthand and insisted on the signing, despite skepticism from others at the club.
Originally seen as a long-term investment, Huijsen got his big break when Marcos Senesi suffered an injury. Slotting into the Premier League spotlight, the towering 6’5″ defender didn’t just survive—he dazzled. Quick on the turn, ambidextrous, and composed under pressure, his performances turned heads across Europe.
The Queue Forms: Premier League Giants Circle
With a £50 million release clause, Huijsen was no longer under the radar. Arsenal led the chase, offering assurances of game time and a vision for the future. Mikel Arteta, alongside new sporting director Andrea Berta, pitched a compelling project, but doubts lingered due to competition from William Saliba and Gabriel.
Liverpool, buoyed by manager Arne Slot’s ties with Huijsen’s father and the player’s admiration for Virgil van Dijk, also seemed poised to strike. Newcastle’s long-term tracking impressed Huijsen’s camp, while Chelsea’s interest, though more opportunistic, was hard to ignore due to the player’s positional versatility.
Madrid Makes Its Move – Late, But Decisive
Despite their longstanding interest, Real Madrid hesitated. A few months ago, only a handful at the club were actively championing Huijsen’s signing. But that changed in March when he made his senior debut for Spain, playing twice against the Netherlands in the Nations League and winning over fans and pundits alike.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente summed it up: “It simply looks like he’s been at the elite level of football for many years.”
That was the turning point. With Xabi Alonso, Madrid’s next manager, making a direct request to bring Huijsen in, the club acted swiftly. José Ángel Sánchez, Madrid’s CEO, took charge of negotiations. With Alonso’s backing and Madrid’s stature, the deal closed rapidly.
Legacy in Mind: The Ramos Connection and a Spanish Dream
Real Madrid wasn’t just another club on the list—it was Huijsen’s destination of choice. He had already switched allegiance from the Netherlands to Spain, indicating where his heart lay. Speaking in March, he shared his admiration: “I was flattered and proud to be linked to the European champions,” adding that his idol was none other than Sergio Ramos.
That emotional pull, combined with the assurance of Alonso’s trust and a clear development pathway, made Madrid the inevitable outcome—even if it took time to materialize.
Read More: Return of the Maestro: How Xabi Alonso Orchestrated His Comeback to Real Madrid
FAQs
Why did Dean Huijsen choose Real Madrid over Arsenal, Liverpool, and Chelsea?
Dean Huijsen chose Real Madrid after manager-in-waiting Xabi Alonso personally requested his signing, tipping the scales despite strong offers from Premier League clubs.
When did Real Madrid first scout Dean Huijsen?
Real Madrid began scouting Huijsen in 2020 when he was playing for Malaga’s under-15 team and immediately recommended him without needing a trial.
How did Bournemouth become a stepping stone for Dean Huijsen?
Bournemouth signed Huijsen in 2023 after Tiago Pinto pushed for the deal; the defender impressed quickly and became a first-team regular.
What was Dean Huijsen’s release clause before joining Real Madrid?
Huijsen had a £50 million release clause at Bournemouth, which made him an attractive prospect for top clubs across Europe.
What role did Xabi Alonso play in Huijsen’s transfer to Real Madrid?
Xabi Alonso strongly advocated for Huijsen’s signing, accelerating Real Madrid’s pursuit and ensuring the deal went through.
