Dean Huijsen
Dean Huijsen
Bournemouth have confirmed that defender Dean Huijsen will be leaving the club at the end of the season after Real Madrid activated his release clause.
The 19-year-old defender has been on Newcastle United's radar as they look to add a new centre-half to their squad this summer and reportedly held talks with his agent. The highly-rated star has impressed on the south coast.
However, La Liga giants Real have won the race for the Spanish international. Bournemouth confirmed that Madrid have triggered his £50million release clause and will complete a deal for the star.
A statement 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 centre-back, who joined the Cherries from Juventus last summer, has been instrumental in the club’s record-breaking campaign, which has seen Andoni Iraola’s side already break their highest points tally in the Premier League.
"Huijsen has made 30 appearances in the top flight this season, scoring goals against Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United and Arsenal. The 20-year-old also earned his first caps for the Spanish national team in March, following a string of impressive performances for the Cherries.
"Everyone at AFC Bournemouth is looking forward to working with Dean for the remaining two games of the Premier League season, before he embarks on the next step of his career."
Newcastle are looking to add a right-sided centre half to their squad this summer as competition for Fabian Schar. The Swiss star signed a contract extension last month, but will be 33 next season and United are looking to bring down the average age of their squad.
Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi remains their No 1 target. The Magpies have continued to hold an interest in the England international since having a series of bids turned down last summer.
Guehi has 12 months left on his Palace contract. He could be available for a cut-price fee at the end of the season but Newcastle face competition from Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur for his services.