Newcastle to battle Chelsea for Bournemouth ace?

Newcastle United are prepared to compete with Chelsea for the signing of Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen this summer, according to Mirror.

The Spain Under-21 international joined the Cherries from Juventus last summer, and he has been brilliant in the heart of the defence this term.

The Cherries' form has improved with him in the starting XI, but the club could lose him at the end of the season due to a secret release clause.

Chelsea are already aware of the figure through his agents, but they could face fierce competition from the Magpies during the summer.

Newcastle were determined to land Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace last summer, but the Eagles were reluctant to sanction his departure.

The Tyneside outfit are now focusing on Huijsen and could go head-to-head with the Blues in the pursuit of the highly-rated central defender.

Huijsen is eyeing Champions League football and that could play a major factor in his decision. He could stay at the Cherries if they were to qualify.