By: Kamal Yalwa
Spanish football powerhouse, Real Madrid, have officially secured the signing of Dean Huijsen from AFC Bournemouth for a fee of £50 million, after activating the 20-year-old defender’s release clause.
The transfer, which will be completed at the end of the ongoing 2024/2025 season, brings to a close speculation linking the Spanish international with a host of top Premier League clubs including Chelsea, Liverpool, Arsenal, and Newcastle United.
Huijsen, who was born in the Netherlands and raised in Spain, has been a standout performer for Bournemouth this season, following his £12.6 million move from Juventus last summer. The talented defender has featured in 34 matches across all competitions, scoring three goals — notably against Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United, and Arsenal.
A statement issued by Bournemouth on Saturday read:
“AFC Bournemouth can confirm that defender Dean Huijsen will join Real Madrid following the conclusion of the 2024/25 season, with the Spanish side having activated a £50 million release clause.”
The 20-year-old’s impressive displays also earned him a call-up to the Spanish national team in March 2025, where he has since made his senior debut.
According to reports, the £50 million transfer fee will be paid in three instalments over 18 months, with Juventus and Malaga CF — Huijsen’s former clubs — set to receive 10% and 5% of the fee, respectively, as part of previously agreed sell-on clauses.
Real Madrid’s acquisition of Huijsen aligns with their ongoing strategy to invest in youth, adding the defender to a growing list of young talents at the Bernabéu, including Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga, and Arda Güler.
Bournemouth stated that they look forward to working with Huijsen for the final two matches of the Premier League season before he begins his new journey in Spain.
