Real Madrid unveiled Dean Huijsen at his official signing ceremony today
Dean Huijsen says he ‘didn’t have eyes for any other teams’ once Real Madrid made their interest known this summer.
Madrid triggered Huijsen’s £50million release clause at Bournemouth last month and the 20-year-old defender was officially unveiled to the media at a glitzy signing ceremony today.
It comes on the back of Huijsen’s outstanding debut season with the Cherries in the Premier League, in which he made 36 appearances in all competitions and further cemented his reputation as one of the finest young centre-backs in Europe.
The likes of Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United and Newcastle and were all credited with a strong interest in Huijsen before the Spain international agreed personal terms with Los Blancos.
The former Juventus centre-half has put pen to paper on a five-year contract at the Bernabeu and will take over the No.24 shirt, most recently worn by Arda Guler.
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‘Thanks to the club and the president [Florentino Perez],’ Huijsen said at his presentation, where he was accompanied by his parents.
‘I wanted to be here from day one. Ever since Real Madrid called, I didn’t have eyes for any other teams.
AFC Bournemouth v Leicester City FC - Premier League
The defender shone in the Premier League last season (Picture: Getty)
Real Madrid Training Session
Alonso has already filled Huijsen in on what he expects from him at Madrid (Picture: Getty)
‘Thanks to my family for all the sacrifices they’ve made for me.
‘I’m joining the best club in the world and I’m here to give it my all. I’m going to work as hard as I can, remaining humble, to hopefully win many trophies together.
‘Madrid is the club of my life, and I hope to be here for many years to come. Hala Madrid!’
The Netherlands-born centre-back will wear the No.24 shirt at Madrid (Picture: Getty)
Huijsen is raring to get started under Xabi Alonso and hopes they are set to enjoy some ‘beautiful years’ together in the Spanish capital.
‘I spoke to Xabi Alonso. He told me what he’s expecting from me,’ he added.
‘I think I fit very well in the type of football he wants and that these will be beautiful years.’
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Perez hailed Huijsen as ‘one of the best centre-backs in the world’ (Picture: Getty)
After taking the stand, Madrid president Perez explained how Huijsen made it ‘clear’ he had no interest in joining any other clubs early on in their discussions.
‘At 20 years old, you are one of the best defenders in the world,’ Perez said.
‘We have a great team, with great talent and exceptional players. That’s why we’re happy today because a player has arrived who bursts into the world of football with the necessary strength, Dean Huijsen.
‘You’ve chosen to wear this shirt because it was your biggest dream since you were a child. Your parents and siblings know how hard you’ve worked to become one of the best centre-backs in the world.
‘In one of the most prestigious leagues, you’ve established yourself as one of the best centre-backs in the world and we’re proud that you’re now wearing the Spanish jersey.
‘You’re an elegant and modern centre-back. Many clubs wanted you, but you were clear that you wanted to play for Madrid.’
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