Real Madrid have officially confirmed the signing of 20-year-old Spanish-Dutch defender Dean Huijsen from AFC Bournemouth in a £50 million deal, marking a significant coup for the La Liga giants. The transfer, finalized on May 17, 2025, sees Huijsen sign a five-year contract with the club, running until June 30, 2030, as Los Blancos bolster their defense ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup in June. The move comes as a response to Madrid’s injury-plagued backline this season, with key defenders Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, David Alaba, and Antonio Rudiger sidelined at various points.
Huijsen, born in Amsterdam and a recent addition to the Spanish national team, has rapidly risen to prominence since his Premier League debut for Bournemouth in August 2024. His composure, two-footed passing, and aerial prowess made him a standout performer, attracting interest from top European clubs including Chelsea, Arsenal, Liverpool, Bayern Munich, and Paris Saint-Germain. Despite lucrative offers from Premier League sides—reportedly as high as €11 million per year—Huijsen prioritized a move to Real Madrid, where he will earn approximately €9 million annually, rising to €11 million with bonuses by the final year of his deal.
The transfer saga began earlier this week when Real Madrid activated Huijsen’s £50 million release clause, agreeing to pay the fee in three installments. Negotiations with Bournemouth moved swiftly, with the Cherries granting permission for Huijsen to undergo his medical in London on May 16. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed the defender passed his medical and signed his contract, paving the way for an official announcement. Bournemouth, who signed Huijsen from Juventus for £12.6 million less than a year ago, will see a substantial profit, with Juventus and Malaga set to receive 10% and 5% of the fee, respectively, due to sell-on clauses.
Huijsen’s journey to the Santiago Bernabéu is a homecoming of sorts. Having moved to Marbella as a child, he developed in Malaga’s youth academy before joining Juventus in 2021. A loan spell at Roma in the 2023-24 season showcased his potential, with two goals in 14 appearances, but it was his performances at Bournemouth under Andoni Iraola that cemented his reputation as one of Europe’s brightest defensive prospects. His debut for Spain in March 2025, during a UEFA Nations League quarterfinal against the Netherlands, further underscored his readiness for elite football.
Real Madrid’s urgency to secure Huijsen was driven by their defensive crisis and the impending departure of manager Carlo Ancelotti, who will be succeeded by Xabi Alonso. Ancelotti praised the signing, stating, “Huijsen is a great player, young, with great potential and projection. The signing is very good on Real Madrid’s part.” Alonso, who reportedly spoke with Huijsen to outline his role in Madrid’s progressive style, sees the defender as a cornerstone for the club’s future. The move also aligns with Madrid’s strategy to rejuvenate their squad, with Huijsen joining alongside the anticipated arrival of Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is expected to sign as a free agent.
Bournemouth fans expressed mixed emotions about the transfer. While disappointed to lose a key player, many acknowledged the opportunity Huijsen has earned. “Dean has been outstanding for us all season and a wonderful talent, so he deserves his opportunity at Real Madrid,” said Roger, a Bournemouth supporter, in comments reported by BBC Sport. Another fan, Robert, added, “A real shame for us, but a superb and well-earned move for him.”
Huijsen’s arrival is expected to provide immediate depth for Real Madrid’s Club World Cup campaign, where they will face Al-Hilal, Pachuca, and Red Bull Salzburg. His versatility and ball-playing ability make him an ideal fit for Alonso’s tactical vision, and fans are eager to see him don the iconic white jersey.