Real Madrid to Unveil £50 Million Signing Dean Huijsen on Tuesday

Real Madrid will officially introduce their new defensive player, Dean Huijsen, early next week. The ceremony seemed likely to take place at the Santiago Bernabéu on Tuesday.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Real Madrid and Bournemouth reached an agreement for the transfer of 20-year-old defender Dean Huijsen in a deal worth £50 million ($60m). The young Spanish international signed a five-year contract that will keep him at the Bernabéu until June 2030. The transfer was officially announced on May 17, but his formal presentation to fans and media has been scheduled for early next week, likely Tuesday. Madrid triggered Huijsen’s release clause, beating out Premier League giants Chelsea and Arsenal who had also shown interest in the talented center-back.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Huijsen’s arrival comes at a crucial time for Los Blancos, who have struggled with defensive injuries throughout the 2024-25 season. Key defenders including Éder Militão, Antonio Rüdiger, and David Alaba all spent extended periods on the sidelines, exposing a vulnerability in Madrid’s backline. The Spanish champions are also reportedly looking to secure the services of full-backs Trent Alexander-Arnold and Álvaro Carreras before the Club World Cup, which kicks off on June 14. Madrid’s acquisition of Huijsen represents their first major signing ahead of the 2025-26 campaign.

HUIJSEN’S IMPRESSIVE JOURNEY

Despite his young age, Huijsen has already built an impressive resume. Born in Amsterdam, he began his youth career at Málaga before moving to Italy where he developed at Juventus. After a successful loan spell at Roma, Huijsen joined Bournemouth in the Premier League where he has excelled this season. The defender made 29 Premier League appearances for the Cherries, scoring three goals and establishing himself as one of the league’s most promising young talents. His performances earned him a nomination for Premier League Young Player of the Year 2024-25 and a call-up to the Spanish national team, making his international debut in March.

WHAT NEXT FOR REAL MADRID?

With the Club World Cup starting on June 14, Huijsen is expected to make an immediate impact for his new club. Madrid finished the La Liga season as champions, sitting five points clear of Barcelona in second place. The presentation ceremony will likely generate significant excitement among Madrid supporters eager to see their new defensive acquisition. Huijsen, who has cited Sergio Ramos as one of his idols, will aim to follow in the footsteps of the legendary Spanish defender as he begins his career at the Santiago Bernabéu. With potential managerial changes also on the horizon, as Xabi Alonso is rumored to replace Carlo Ancelotti, Real Madrid are entering an exciting new chapter.