Report: Chelsea Leading Liverpool and Arsenal in the Race to Sign £50m Defender | OneFootball

Chelsea Lead Chase for Dean Huijsen as Liverpool Monitor Rising Star

As the summer transfer window approaches, Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen is fast becoming one of the most sought-after names in European football. The 20-year-old centre-back, who arrived from Juventus last summer, has enjoyed an impressive debut campaign in the Premier League, catching the eye of top clubs including Liverpool, Chelsea, and Real Madrid. With a reported £50 million release clause, interest in the Spanish international is heating up — and Chelsea may well be in pole position.

Huijsen’s Rise: From Juventus Prospect to Premier League Mainstay

It’s been a whirlwind season for Dean Huijsen. Few expected the young defender to adapt so swiftly to the demands of English football, but his performances at the heart of Bournemouth’s defence have been nothing short of assured. At just 20, Huijsen’s composure, physicality, and ball-playing ability have not gone unnoticed.

Despite signing a six-year deal at the Vitality Stadium, the presence of a £50m release clause has triggered serious interest. Liverpool, Manchester United, Newcastle, and Real Madrid are among those tracking his progress. But it’s the Premier League’s capital clubs — Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham — who may be most urgently weighing up a move.

Photo IMAGO

Chelsea’s Youth Project Makes Huijsen a Perfect Fit

Among those clubs, Chelsea appear best positioned. Recent reports suggest the Blues are currently leading the race for Huijsen’s signature, and it’s easy to understand why.

Under the ownership of Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, Chelsea’s recruitment strategy has centred around young, high-potential talent — and Huijsen fits that mould perfectly. Though Chelsea’s defensive ranks look deep on paper, they’ve struggled to find consistency, largely due to injuries and player turnover.

Wesley Fofana, while highly rated, has suffered a succession of long-term injuries. Benoit Badiashile may be on the move, Trevoh Chalobah’s future is in doubt, and Axel Disasi is expected to be sold. Even with Levi Colwill’s emergence, Chelsea are in the market for a reliable, long-term defensive partner — and Huijsen could be that player.

With Enzo Maresca set to shape Chelsea’s next phase, the allure of Champions League football — should they qualify — could be the final piece in the puzzle to convince Huijsen that Stamford Bridge is the right destination.

Liverpool Remain Watchful but May Prioritise Elsewhere

Liverpool’s name is never far from elite-level transfer conversations, and it’s no different with Huijsen. New head coach Arne Slot is expected to refine the squad left behind by Jürgen Klopp, and defensive reinforcements are reportedly on the agenda.

The Reds have had their fair share of injuries in defence, and while Virgil van Dijk remains a commanding presence, the Dutchman’s long-term partner is still in flux. Joe Gomez has enjoyed a revival, but question marks remain over Ibrahima Konaté’s fitness. That said, with Liverpool also linked to midfield and attacking targets, whether the club would commit £50m to a centre-back remains to be seen.

Photo IMAGO

Tottenham’s Uncertainty May Hinder Their Pursuit

Tottenham Hotspur are another club reportedly keen on Huijsen, but their situation is complicated. The future of Cristian Romero is uncertain, with the Argentine admitting a desire to return to Spain. Micky van de Ven has impressed when fit, but fitness issues persist.

Spurs’ current draw lies in their ability to offer regular minutes to younger players, with Lucas Bergvall and Archie Gray both receiving opportunities. Still, with doubts surrounding their managerial situation and European qualification, Huijsen may opt for a more stable environment.

Intriguingly, should Ange Postecoglou depart and Tottenham appoint Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola — Huijsen’s current boss — the narrative could shift. Familiarity might just prove a decisive factor.

Verdict: Chelsea in Pole Position but Liverpool Lurking

While several top clubs have expressed interest, Chelsea’s project, squad needs, and financial capability put them at the front of the queue. However, Liverpool’s track record of elevating young players and their Champions League ambitions could yet influence the outcome.

One thing is certain: Dean Huijsen is on the brink of a significant step in his career — and the Premier League’s elite are circling.