Real Madrid is about to finalize a new addition to their defense: Dean Huijsen, the 20-year-old Spanish-Dutch center-back, is very close to becoming a Madrid player. According to various reports, the paperwork between the white club and Bournemouth is already being exchanged, and the deal is practically done pending the official signature. The transfer fee is around $63 million, corresponding to the £50 million release clause, which Madrid will pay in three installments.

Rapid and solid progression

Huijsen has shown remarkable development after his time at Juventus and a strong season in the Premier League with Bournemouth, where he played 31 games, scored 2 goals, and became a key part of the team’s defense. His performances erased any doubts about his physical capacity and adaptability, attracting interest from several top European clubs. Although teams like Chelsea also made strong bids, the defender always knew since he was young that his dream was to play for a giant of Spanish football.

Urgent reinforcement for Madrid’s defense

The urgent need for Real Madrid to strengthen their backline — weakened by injuries to Militao, Alaba, and Rüdiger throughout the season — sped up this move. The club hopes to have Huijsen ready to compete in the FIFA Club World Cup, starting June 18 in the United States. Thanks to the FIFA transfer window, open from June 1 to 10, his registration could be completed in time to join the squad.

The deal will also bring financial benefits to other clubs involved in the player’s development. Juventus will receive 10% of the profit as part of a prior agreement, while Málaga and San Félix, where Huijsen grew up, will get a share of the 5% solidarity payment mandated by UEFA, totaling around $1.9 million.

With this signing, Real Madrid bets on a young center-back with personality and potential, fitting perfectly with the club’s recent recruitment policy aimed at building a competitive squad now and securing the future. All signs point to Huijsen being one of the first key pieces in the new era under Xabi Alonso, alongside the also imminent arrival of Trent Alexander-Arnold.