The rise of Huijsen

Dean Huijsen has completed a move from Bournemouth to Real Madrid this week, with the 20-year-old Spain international set to become a generational talent.

Huijsen, who was born in The Netherlands but ended up representing Spain, is widely considered as one of the best young defenders in Europe at this time. At just 20-years-old and standing at 6 foot 5, he already has the physicality and frame of a 32-year-old experienced defender, and looks set to lead Real Madrid's central defence for a generation. What is most remarkable about this gem, is the fact that Huijsen only made his debut in January 2025. Fast forward 2-and-a-half years later, the player has completed a dream transfer to Real Madrid, has already appeared in Serie A and the Premier League, as well as international recognition.

When he played for Juventus in the 2023-2024 season, numerous scouts were already watching the centre-back. Roma persuaded the youngster to move to them, and he joined until the end of 2023-24 season on the 6th January 2024. He scored two goals in 13 Serie A games, and ultimately attracted the interest of numerous sides, but Bournemouth won the race for his signature, signing the Spaniard for 15.2 million euros. A full Premier League campaign is on the verge of finishing, and Huijsen has appeared 30 times and scored two goals, one of which was a key goal against Premier League giants Arsenal.

What is most exciting, is the fact that Real Madrid believe they have secured a bargain in signing Huijsen for £50 million, as many pundits value Huijsen at more than double that fee. He will sign a contract until July 2030 after Real paid the player's minimum fee release clause. It is a big loss for Bournemouth and Andoni Iraola, but Huijsen will be making a dream move in the transfer to La Liga.

A disappointing season for Real Madrid means that Los Blancos must sign new faces. Huijsen is seen as one of the best young defenders in the world, and ultimately it is a big statement for the club to secure his signature.

Xabi Alonso will be arriving at Real from Bayer Leverkusen, and Huijsen will likely be the first name on the teamsheet once the new season begins in August, with duo Huijsen and Rudiger leading the central defence.