Newcastle-linked Dean Huijsen pictured in action for Spain.
Dean Huijsen has been linked with a move to Newcastle United.
AFC Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has admitted that he's "not surprised" by Newcastle United and other clubs showing interest in talented defender Dean Huijsen.
The 19-year-old Spanish centre-back has become one of the most-wanted defenders in the Premier League this summer following his breakthrough season with the Cherries. Eddie Howe is just one of the many managers who reportedly have their eyes on Huijsen with a view to next season.
Huijsen has played a major role in Bournemouth's current season success. The south coast team find themselves in an FA Cup quarter-final this weekend and they are in contention for a European spot, which would mark a massive step forward for Iraola's squad.
The 42-year-old manager brought Huijsen over from Juventus following an impressive loan spell at Roma. Iraola clearly knew what he saw in Huijsen - and it's this exact reason why he isn't shocked that other clubs have a key interest in the Netherlands-born defender.
"We are not surprised," the Cherries boss said. "Probably because he has now made his national team debut [with Spain], he has played well, probably they are talking more about him.
"He has been playing consistently and I think he has performed very well. He has faced very difficult forwards, but we already knew he was a very good player when he came in the summer."
Huijsen recently named Magpies striker Alexander Isak among the top three forwards he has faced this season. He labelled the Sweden star a "very complete striker" - but will they eventually be teammates?
The 19-year-old has a hefty £50million release clause in his Bournemouth contract, but Newcastle will face tough competition if they pursue their interest, with European giants Real Madrid and Premier League leaders Liverpool also reportedly eyeing the youngster."
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