Fabrizio Romano: Liverpool ‘hold advantage’ over Real Madrid | OneFootball

Liverpool Well-Placed in Dean Huijsen Race Amid Real Madrid Uncertainty

Rising talent attracting Premier League elite

Liverpool are among several Premier League clubs closely monitoring Dean Huijsen, the towering 19-year-old Bournemouth defender whose composed performances and ball-playing ability have earned widespread admiration. According to Fabrizio Romano, the Reds have a real opportunity to steal a march in the race, with Real Madrid yet to decide on their summer centre-back strategy.

Huijsen, who has made 25 Premier League appearances and scored twice this season, boasts a £50 million release clause—a figure not considered prohibitive for Europe’s top clubs given his potential. Standing at 6’5”, his ability to play out from the back and his versatility in defensive positions make him a prime candidate for Liverpool’s summer rebuild.

Madrid delay creates opportunity

While Real Madrid have long admired the Spanish international, they remain undecided about investing in a central defender this summer. “Dean Huijsen would be very open to a move to Real Madrid,” Romano said. “But this depends on Real Madrid.”

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He continued: “As of today, Real Madrid have still not decided whether they want to invest in a centre-back this summer or continue with the centre-backs they have.”

That hesitancy opens the door for Liverpool and others. “Premier League clubs are really, really pushing. So, the timing will be important in this story,” Romano added.

Slot’s system needs fresh depth

With Arne Slot set to lead Liverpool into a new tactical era, reinforcing the defence is a priority. Ibrahima Konaté’s contract runs until 2026, but his injury record remains a concern. Meanwhile, Jarell Quansah’s recent use as a makeshift right-back in the Merseyside derby only highlighted Liverpool’s need for reliable cover.

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Virgil van Dijk’s long-term successor remains a key question. Huijsen, already playing with composure and maturity beyond his years, could provide both an immediate squad option and a long-term investment.

Intense competition ahead

Liverpool won’t be alone. Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham, and Newcastle are all tracking Huijsen, while Bayern Munich have reportedly made contact in recent weeks. Yet, Romano’s report makes it clear: “Dean Huijsen is going to keep exploring all the options in the next days and weeks.”

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In a market where timing is everything, Liverpool’s clarity and urgency could prove decisive.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

This is exactly the type of move Liverpool need to be making. Dean Huijsen might not be a household name just yet, but for fans who’ve followed Bournemouth closely this season, it’s no surprise to see him being linked with top sides. At just 19, he’s already a Premier League regular—and he looks like he belongs.

For Liverpool supporters, what’s exciting is that this isn’t just a short-term fix. Huijsen fits the long-term vision: tall, strong, technically capable, and comfortable under pressure. In many ways, he’s reminiscent of a young van Dijk, albeit with more to develop physically and tactically.

With Real Madrid stalling, this feels like the moment to strike. Under Arne Slot, the Reds will likely evolve into a more proactive, possession-based side. A player like Huijsen, who thrives when building from the back, makes perfect sense. And with the depth issues exposed late in the season, the need is obvious.

If Liverpool can get this deal done early, it would be a real statement of intent.