A man in a suit smiles and gives a thumbs up next to a player in a white jersey with a team logo, in a stadium with a black silhouette on the right.
Arnold, Florentino Pérez, and Huijsen's Silhouette | Camara Real Madrid Confidencial
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Florentino Gives the OK: The Signing That Will Arrive Alongside Alexander Arnold at Real Madrid

The Real Madrid President is fully convinced that Huijsen must arrive this summer to strengthen the defense

by

Alex Moreno

Real Madrid Had Planned Not to Sign a Center-Back Until 2026, but the situation has changed this summer. Dean Huijsen, Bournemouth's center-back, has convinced the club's management. Florentino Pérez has given the green light to the signing, who will join Trent Alexander-Arnold in the next market.

Dean Huijsen, at only 19 years old and 6 ft. 6 in. (197 cm) tall, has dazzled in the Premier League. His excellent performance has caught the attention of major European clubs.

This ambidextrous, fast, brave center-back with great ball-handling skills has been one of the standout players under Andoni Iraola's management at Bournemouth.

A player celebrating a goal with arms outstretched in front of the goal.
Huijsen Celebrating with Bournemouth | Real Madrid Confidencial

This season, Huijsen has played 27 matches, scoring two goals. His value on Transfermarkt has risen to 42 million euros, reflecting his rapid development.

Safe Bet

At Real Madrid, the interest in Huijsen is clear. His characteristics fit perfectly with the team's current needs. Especially in the build-up play from the defense, an aspect in which David Alaba, due to his physical condition, can't contribute all that is required.

The young center-back could occupy the left side of the defense and strengthen a defense that, although solid, needs new options.

Initially, Real Madrid's plan did not include signing a center-back for this summer. The emergence of Asencio and the recovery of Joan Martínez after his serious knee injury seemed sufficient to cover that position in the short term.

However, Huijsen's determination to join the club has changed the course. The player is clear that his desire is to play at Santiago Bernabéu, and the club also sees him as a great future option.

Two players compete for the ball in a match, one in a red uniform and the other in a white uniform, while the crowd watches from the stands.
Van Dijk and Huijsen Compete for a Ball | Getty Images

Raised and Trained in Spain

Huijsen's history with Real Madrid is not new. During his time at Málaga, when he was still a cadet, he visited Valdebebas and was close to signing with the club.

However, an irresistible offer from Juventus led the young center-back to choose Italy. After his stints at Roma and Bournemouth, his return to Madrid now seems increasingly likely.

This summer, Real Madrid could finally take the step to incorporate Huijsen, with the competition of several European clubs lurking. The signing, along with Alexander-Arnold's, would represent a significant reinforcement for the club's future.

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