Newcastle suffer major blow as Chelsea ready to activate £50million release clause of Premier League star | OneFootball

Dean Huijsen has long been admired by Newcastle United. The Magpies are in the market for a young, ball-playing centre-back who could eventually replace Fabian Schar in the heart of Eddie Howe’s defence. After missing out on Huijsen in 2024, Newcastle reignited their interest this year.

The Spanish international, who signed permanently for Bournemouth last summer, has impressed with his technical quality, calmness in possession, and positional intelligence. Those qualities make him an ideal fit for Howe’s style of play. But Newcastle may now miss out again.

Chelsea take the lead in Dean Huijsen race amid Newcastle United interest

According to The Telegraph, Chelsea are now in pole position to sign Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth. They are reportedly ready to activate the 20-year-old’s £50million release clause and are prepared to offer him a lucrative long-term contract.

This development could be a devastating blow for Newcastle. Not only do they risk missing out on Huijsen, but Chelsea’s pursuit of the Spanish international also raises doubts about whether the Magpies can compete financially for high-profile targets this summer.

Newcastle are also interested in Huijsen’s Bournemouth teammate Illia Zabarnyi, but a double sale looks unlikely. Bournemouth will be under no pressure to part with both of their star centre-backs in the same window, especially with European qualification within reach.

Newcastle transfer news - Eddie Howe’s centre-back plans in doubt

Dean Huijsen’s playing style is similar to that of Fabian Schar. Comfortable on either side of the defence and strong in distribution, he would have been a ready-made replacement for the ageing Swiss international. Eddie Howe was believed to be pushing internally to make the move happen, but Chelsea’s financial firepower may end Newcastle’s pursuit.

This is a critical window for Newcastle United. With defensive reinforcements a top priority, the Magpies cannot afford to miss out on too many top targets. Huijsen was seen as a major piece in the long-term puzzle, and if Chelsea get their way, Newcastle will be back to square one.

Still, there is hope that Newcastle can respond in the market with alternatives. The club has been tracking several young defenders across Europe, and Marc Guehi could re-emerge as a key target—especially if Chelsea focus their efforts on Huijsen.

For now, though, this is a tough pill to swallow for Eddie Howe. Newcastle must regroup and act fast before more opportunities slip through their fingers.