Real Madrid has made a significant move in the summer transfer window, securing the £50 million signing of Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth. The 20-year-old centre-back’s arrival at the Santiago Bernabeu marks a pivotal moment for both the club and the player. Huijsen, one of the most exciting defensive prospects, has seen his value skyrocket in a year. This article delves into Huijsen’s background, playing style, and the circumstances that led to Juventus letting him go, providing a comprehensive overview of why Real Madrid moved so decisively.
From his early days in the Netherlands to his development in Spain and Italy, Huijsen’s journey is a testament to his talent and determination. His unique blend of physicality and technical ability has made him a sought-after player, with top clubs across Europe vying for his signature. This move to Real Madrid not only elevates his career but also addresses the immediate defensive needs of the Spanish giants, who have been plagued by injuries in recent weeks.
Who is Dean Huijsen?
Dean Huijsen was born in Amsterdam, Netherlands, in 2005. At the age of five, his family relocated to Malaga, in southern Spain. He entered Malaga’s youth system in 2015. By 2021, at age 16, he moved to Juventus.
Huijsen initially represented the Netherlands at the youth level, captaining the under-19s. However, the Spanish Football Association successfully convinced him to switch allegiances last year, a decision influenced by his upbringing in Spain. In early 2024, Huijsen obtained Spanish citizenship and began playing for Spain’s under-21 side. His career took another leap in July 2024 when Bournemouth acquired him from Juventus for €15 million (£12.6 million), with potential bonuses of up to €3 million.
Over the 2024-2025 season, Huijsen became a key performer for Bournemouth. In March 2025, he received his first call-up to the Spain squad. “I feel Spanish, Spain is my home,” Huijsen said. He debuted impressively against the Netherlands in the Nations League quarter-finals. This blend of international experience and club performance has significantly raised his profile.
“I feel Spanish, Spain is my home,” – Dean Huijsen
Why is he so highly rated?
Dean Huijsen’s high rating stems from his exceptional qualities as a modern central defender. Comfortable using both feet, he has been pivotal in Andoni Iraola’s attractive and effective style of play at Bournemouth. Huijsen combines physicality with cultured in-possession play, adept in defensive duels and capable of driving into midfield with the ball.
His expansive passing range further enhances his appeal. Huijsen consistently seeks opportunities to break the first line of pressure and advance into midfield. He embodies the traits of a complete, modern-day centre-back. When Bournemouth Echo asked Iraola about Huijsen’s best attributes, he highlighted his mentality and confidence. Iraola noted Huijsen’s fearlessness in marking forwards and his composure on the ball.
Despite being only 20 (in April 2025), Huijsen demonstrates a level of maturity rarely seen at his age. This composure was evident in his Spain debut against the Netherlands. Despite facing boos from the home crowd, he delivered a solid performance in a 2-2 draw. He further impressed in the return leg, providing an assist for Lamine Yamal in a 3-3 tie, before Spain won on penalties. Luis de la Fuente praised Huijsen as a significant addition to Spanish football.
“His mentality, his head. He’s confident. He is not afraid of marking any forward and he’s calm on the ball,” – Andoni Iraola
How did Madrid’s move come about?
In recent months, sources close to Huijsen indicated his preference for a move to Real Madrid. Huijsen himself acknowledged his pride in being linked with such a club. Real Madrid had been monitoring him for years, but their interest intensified this season, particularly after a series of poor results in recent weeks. The club accelerated talks following their 4-3 defeat to Barcelona on May 11, which effectively ended their La Liga title hopes.
After reports emerged that Madrid had agreed to pay Bournemouth’s £50m release clause, Huijsen’s representatives traveled to Madrid to finalize personal terms. This move is crucial for Madrid both in the short and long term. All of Madrid’s senior centre-backs are currently injured, with Eder Militao recovering from an ACL injury and Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba undergoing meniscus surgery.
Securing Huijsen before the revamped Club World Cup in the United States was essential for the club. Beyond immediate needs, Madrid recognizes Huijsen’s potential, strong personality, and exceptional qualities on the pitch. This signing reflects Madrid’s strategic approach to reinforce their squad with promising talent.
So why did Juventus let him go?
Huijsen was a prominent figure in Juventus’ focus on youth development. Signed in 2021, he was slated to join the Next Gen Under-23 team. This project, led by Fabio Paratici and his staff, successfully integrated several players into the first team. Besides Huijsen, Kenan Yildiz, Matias Soule, Samuel Iling-Junior, and Enzo Barrenechea also benefited from this program.
Juventus coach Max Allegri debuted Huijsen against Milan in October 2023, showcasing the trust in his abilities. Roma signed Huijsen on loan a few months later, with coach Jose Mourinho acknowledging him as one of Europe’s hottest prospects. Tiago Pinto, who initially signed him for Roma, later moved to Bournemouth and ensured Huijsen joined him.
Juventus, under new coach Thiago Motta, underwent a squad overhaul. To fund transfers exceeding €200 million, Cristiano Giuntoli sacrificed several players, including Huijsen, for profit. However, Giuntoli only negotiated a 10 percent share of the profit on Huijsen, drawing criticism. Fans have expressed dissatisfaction, particularly as Lloyd Kelly now makes mistakes in the role Huijsen previously filled. This decision highlights the financial pressures and strategic shifts within Juventus.
Huijsen’s Style of Play
Dean Huijsen is known for his composed and confident style of play, both in defense and when bringing the ball out from the back. His ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions has earned him praise from coaches and teammates alike. He is also noted for his passing accuracy and vision, often initiating attacks from deep within his own half. Huijsen’s versatility allows him to play in multiple defensive positions, further adding to his value on the pitch.
His physical presence is another key attribute, as he is strong in aerial duels and tackles, providing a solid foundation for his team’s defense. Despite his youth, Huijsen demonstrates a maturity and tactical awareness that belies his age. These qualities have made him a standout performer at every level he has played, and they are expected to continue to shine as he joins Real Madrid.
Off the field, Huijsen is known for his dedication and work ethic, constantly striving to improve his game. He is also a popular figure in the dressing room, with a positive attitude and willingness to learn from more experienced players. This combination of on-field talent and off-field character makes him an ideal fit for Real Madrid, where he will be expected to contribute both on and off the pitch.
Conclusion
Real Madrid’s acquisition of Dean Huijsen represents a strategic investment in a promising young talent. Huijsen’s journey from the Netherlands to Spain and Italy, culminating in a move to one of the world’s biggest clubs, underscores his potential and the high regard in which he is held. His blend of technical skill, physical prowess, and mental fortitude makes him an ideal fit for Real Madrid’s ambitions.
The circumstances surrounding Juventus’ decision to let him go highlight the complexities of modern football finance, while Bournemouth’s role in his development showcases the value of nurturing young players. As Huijsen embarks on this new chapter, he carries the hopes of fans and the expectations of a club eager to reclaim its place at the pinnacle of European football. His impact at Real Madrid will be closely watched, and his success could well define the future of the club’s defense.
In summary, Dean Huijsen’s move to Real Madrid is more than just a transfer; it’s a statement of intent. It signifies Madrid’s commitment to blending established stars with emerging talents, ensuring a competitive edge both now and in the years to come. As Huijsen steps onto the hallowed turf of the Santiago Bernabeu, he carries with him the weight of expectation, the promise of potential, and the hopes of a new generation of Real Madrid supporters.
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