Bournemouth release Dean Huijsen transfer statement as £50m deal completed for Newcastle target
Bournemouth have officially announced that Dean Huijsen will depart the club at the end of the season, with Real Madrid activating his £50 million release clause to secure his services.
The highly-regarded 19-year-old centre-back, who has enjoyed a breakout season on the south coast, will join the Spanish giants after impressing both domestically and internationally.
His rise has attracted significant attention across Europe, with Premier League clubs like Newcastle United expressing serious interest, having reportedly engaged in preliminary talks with his representatives.
Despite those advances, it is Real Madrid who have emerged victorious in the chase for Huijsen, cementing the deal before other suitors could finalize their own approaches.
Huijsen’s impact at Bournemouth has been nothing short of remarkable since his arrival from Juventus last summer.
His assured presence in the heart of defence has been crucial to the club’s record-breaking Premier League campaign under manager Andoni Iraola.
The Dutch-born Spanish international has made 30 league appearances, delivering standout performances and scoring against top sides including Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United, and Arsenal.
His defensive maturity, aerial dominance, and ability to play out from the back have set him apart as one of the most promising young defenders in Europe.
Moreover, his performances earned him a call-up to the Spanish national team, where he made his senior debut in March, further raising his profile on the international stage.
In a statement, Bournemouth expressed pride in Huijsen’s development and contribution to the team’s success. The club acknowledged that while his departure will leave a void, his time at Vitality Stadium has been immensely valuable both for him and the club.
His consistent displays and leadership qualities, even at such a young age, have made him a standout performer in a side that exceeded expectations throughout the season.
As Bournemouth prepare for life without him, they will undoubtedly look to reinvest his transfer fee into strengthening the squad and building on their momentum heading into the next campaign.
For Newcastle United, Huijsen’s move to Real Madrid represents a missed opportunity in their search for a new centre-back.
The Magpies remain focused on reinforcing their defensive line, particularly on the right side, where they hope to add depth and competition for Fabian Schär.
While the experienced Swiss international recently extended his contract, the club remains mindful of his age as he approaches 33.
Newcastle’s broader transfer strategy includes reducing the average age of their squad while bringing in players who can grow with the club as they continue to challenge for European football.
Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi remains at the top of Newcastle’s wishlist. The England international has long been admired by the Magpies, who made several attempts to sign him last summer.
Although Palace resisted those bids at the time, Guehi’s contract will expire in 12 months, making him a more attainable target in the upcoming window. The defender’s Premier League experience and composure on the ball make him an ideal candidate to strengthen Newcastle’s backline.
However, they are not alone in pursuing him. Both Chelsea, his former club, and Tottenham Hotspur have also shown interest, setting the stage for a competitive battle for his signature.
With Huijsen bound for Madrid and Guehi’s future uncertain, Newcastle’s recruitment team faces a crucial summer in shaping the squad for the upcoming season.
The club’s ambition to compete consistently at the highest level requires calculated investments, and their search for a young, commanding centre-back remains a top priority.
While they may have missed out on one rising star, the pursuit of another continues with equal intensity, as the Magpies look to balance experience with youth and ensure their defence remains formidable for years to come.