Chelsea are leading the race to sign Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth | OneFootball

Chelsea have jumped ahead of a continuously growing queue of clubs keen to sign Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth this summer.

The talented teenager is well on his way to becoming a world-beater, and many clubs believe he has what it takes to lead a backline for years.

According to The Independent, Chelsea recognise the growing interest in the defender and want to get a deal over the line early.

The ideal scenario for the Blues is to get it done before the Club World Cup.

Huijsen has enjoyed a breakout season in the Premier League. It’s only been a year since he joined the Cherries from Juventus, but he could be on the move again.

He has established an admirable partnership with Illia Zabarnyi at the heart of Bournemouth’s defence.

Both players are highly rated, but Huijsen’s poise, calm, charisma, and maturity on both sides of the ball – and his age – make him a more appealing target.

Huijsen has added fuel to Chelsea’s pursuit amid reports that he doesn’t mind moving to Stamford Bridge this summer.

Despite interest from Liverpool, Arsenal, and Newcastle United, Chelsea are leading the chase and are already preparing a custom long-term contract.

Ideally, they’d want to tie him to a seven-year deal – a familiar approach the Blues have employed since BlueCo’s takeover.

They have moved on from the era of signing established stars to investing in high-potential players, and Huijsen is their newfound obsession.

The Netherlands-born Spain international has a £50 million release clause in his contract. He’s a long-term solution to Chelsea’s defensive shortcomings.

The Blues have spent a fortune on defenders in the past, but it hasn’t worked out well. Wesley Fofana is a perfect example.

Despite joining Chelsea in the summer of 2022, the Frenchman has spent more time in the infirmary than on the pitch, featuring just 34 times in three years.

Huijsen will be a breath of fresh air and could form a solid partnership with Levi Colwill at the heart of the defence.

Huijsen has previously opened up about his desire to move back to Spain.

That put Real Madrid in the driving seat. But the Spanish giants are unsure about spending £50m on a centre-back so Chelsea might be in the clear.