Newcastle United are preparing a summer move for Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen and have identified the 19-year-old as their “number one defensive target,” according to The Sun’s Gary Stonehouse.
“Newcastle have Dean Huijsen as their number one defensive target,” Stonehouse reported.
According to the report, Newcastle are looking to strengthen their defense and have turned their attention to Huijsen, who is currently on loan at Bournemouth from Juventus.
The teenager has impressed in his debut Premier League campaign, and made his international debut with Spain's senior side on Thursday, March 20, against the Netherlands in a UEFA Nations League matchup.
"The Spanish U21 ace has a release clause of £50m in his Bournemouth contract and Toon are willing to meet that figure,” Stonehouse reported.
Stonehouse also noted that while Newcastle “missed out on Crystal Palace’s England international Marc Guehi last year,” the Magpies are ready to compete for Huijsen despite reported interest from Chelsea, Liverpool and Real Madrid, the latter being acknowledged as 'flattering' by the very own player during the international break.
In related news, Stonehouse also reported thst the club is in talks with Fabian Schär over an extension to his expiring contract, while Jamaal Lascelles could depart as a free agent after missing the entire season due to injury.