Real Madrid’s Latest Signing: Dean Huijsen Joins the Ranks
In a move that has sent ripples through the football world, Real Madrid have officially announced the signing of Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen. The LaLiga giants confirmed the acquisition early on May 17, 2025, marking a significant addition to their squad.
Huijsen, who has been a standout performer in his debut Premier League season, made the switch to Bournemouth from Juventus. Real Madrid, keen to bolster their defensive line, swooped in to secure the 20-year-old’s services by meeting his £50 million ($60m) transfer clause. This strategic move ensures Huijsen’s availability for the upcoming Club World Cup in June.
Bournemouth, in a statement, highlighted Huijsen’s pivotal role in their record-breaking campaign under Andoni Iraola. “The centre-back, who joined the Cherries from Juventus last summer, has been instrumental in the club’s record-breaking campaign, which has seen Andoni Iraola’s side already break their highest points tally in the Premier League,” the club stated. They expressed their eagerness to work with him for the remaining two games of the season before he embarks on his new journey.
Real Madrid, on their part, confirmed that Huijsen will officially join them on June 1, just in time for the Club World Cup. “Real Madrid C.F. and AFC Bournemouth have reached an agreement for the transfer of Dean Huijsen, who will remain at our club for the next five seasons, from June 1, 2025, to June 30, 2030,” the club announced.
At just 20 years old, Huijsen is already a Spanish international, having played in Italy’s Serie A with Juventus and Roma, and in the Premier League with Bournemouth. His impressive performances have earned him a nomination for the 2024-2025 Premier League Young Player of the Year award.
Real Madrid’s decision to sign Huijsen comes as no surprise, given their defensive struggles in the 2024-25 campaign. The team has been plagued by injuries to key players such as centre-backs Éder Militão, Antonio Rüdiger, and David Alaba, as well as full-backs Dani Carvajal, Ferland Mendy, and Lucas Vázquez.
During a recent news conference, Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti expressed his excitement about the new signing. “Huijsen is a great, young player with a lot of potential. It’s a very good signing. It’s exciting, Real Madrid always want to be at the top and they always will be. Last year [signing a defender] wasn’t an option, we had Alaba coming back, Militão fit, Carvajal fit, and during the season those injuries affected us,” Ancelotti stated.
Real Madrid are not stopping with Huijsen. They are also eyeing the arrival of full-backs Trent Alexander-Arnold and Álvaro Carreras before the Club World Cup, which kicks off on June 14, according to sources. Additionally, Xabi Alonso is expected to take over as manager, replacing Carlo Ancelotti.
ESPN had reported back in March that Madrid had prioritized Huijsen, who had impressed during his loan spell at Roma before moving to England. Interestingly, Madrid nearly signed Huijsen when he was a youth player at Malaga, but his family opted for him to continue his development in Italy.
Born in Amsterdam, Huijsen has made 29 Premier League appearances this season, scoring three goals. Both Chelsea and Arsenal were reportedly interested in the young talent before Madrid accelerated their pursuit. Huijsen, who idolizes Sergio Ramos, will now don the iconic white jersey of Real Madrid.
- Real Madrid confirm Huijsen signing for £50 million.
- Huijsen to join Madrid on June 1, 2025.
- Madrid aims to strengthen defense with more signings.
Information from ESPN’s Alex Kirkland contributed to this report.
Originally Written by: ESPN
