Dean Huijsen’s links to Real Madrid are strengthening daily. But there are still no guarantees that Los Blancos will sign him this summer.
However, all the indicators are screaming that this is a deal Real Madrid shouldn’t miss out on.
Here are three main reasons why…
1. Huijsen can play
If Real Madrid signs Huijsen, they’d be getting one of the best ball-playing centre-backs in Europe.
The Bournemouth defender is in the top 1-10% of defenders in terms of interceptions, passes, progressive carries and expected assists, per FBref’s graph.
His visionary pass to set up Lamine Yamal in the Spain v Netherlands Nations League game was out of this world.
Huijsen makes such passes often for Bournemouth in the Premier League.
2. One for the future
When Real Madrid forked out 103 million Euros to sign Jude Bellingham in 2023, they paid without blinking not just because he was ready to enter their first XI but because he is very young. In 10 years, Jude would only be turning 30.
Enter Dean Huijsen. At 19, the Spaniard is starting games for his country and will do so for Real Madrid.
However, Real Madrid’s defence will be set for the next decade if they get Huijsen. Don’t forget, they already have Raul Asencio, who in our opinion is one of the most aggressive and technically gifted centre-backs in the world.
Furthermore, Madrid must be wary of depending on an ageing defence. Alaba and Rudiger are already above 30, while Militao is almost there at 27.
3. He’s affordable
Huijsen will only cost Real Madrid 50 million euros, per his release clause.
In a year or two, the player could be worth much more. We’ve seen that in Barcelona’s Pau Cubarsi and William Saliba of France among others.
At €50m, Huijsen will help Madrid improve their Spanish core and will adapt quickly to the club.
Here’s Huijsen’s performance on his first start for Spain.
Madrid should stop contemplating and go all out for Huijsen!