Dean Huijsen has gone from a promise to a reality in European soccer in just a few months. Under Andoni Iraola's direction at Bournemouth, his performance has been outstanding. Physical power, clarity with the ball, and character have caught the attention of half of Europe.
At just 19 years old, he has established himself as one of the most promising center-backs in the Premier League. His growth has been meteoric, and top-tier clubs have activated their radar. Among them, FC Barcelona, which had marked him as a strategic target.
Barça saw him as the ideal partner for Cubarsí
In Barcelona, they fantasized about a future defense: Cubarsí and Huijsen. The sports management trusted that together they could mark an era in Europe. Doubts about Christensen, Eric García, and the possible departure of Araújo reinforced that need.
The Spanish-Dutch player's profile fit what Flick demands: clean play, security, and maturity. Additionally, his price was not unreasonable: in England, there was talk of 35 million euros. A manageable figure if his signing was prioritized over other operations.
His season has been so brilliant that several media outlets include him among the best young players in the Premier. Huijsen has been a regular starter, growing each matchday with a maturity beyond his years. His name is already strongly considered for 'La Roja's' list.
He is compared to the great center-backs of the last decade for his calmness and game reading. Even Xabi Alonso has praised his evolution, considering him a modern center-back with an elite profile. In summary: a complete defender who is already present and will be the future.
Barça, without margin or speed
Despite the great interest, FC Barcelona has not been able to advance in the operation. The salary cap and priorities in other positions have blocked the possibility of making an immediate offer. Additionally, the competition has been fierce and much faster.
Deco and Flick had valued him highly, but the economic context has been decisive. The need to sell before buying and the impossibility of entering bidding wars have put him out of reach. While Barça was analyzing, another club already had everything done.
Real Madrid reacts quickly
According to various sources, Dean Huijsen has already given the green light to his new club. The chosen one has been Real Madrid, which needed to strengthen its defense after the physical problems of Militao, Alaba, and Rüdiger. Florentino Pérez wanted to anticipate the market.
The white club has closed the deal taking advantage of the rest's passivity. Huijsen joins a project that seeks to rejuvenate the defense with consolidated talent. The official announcement is imminent, and only administrative details are missing to make it public.
At Camp Nou, they regret losing a footballer who fit perfectly. With Pau Cubarsí already settled, his incorporation would have been strategic for the immediate future. But economic limitations and Madrid's speed have decided the outcome.
Dean Huijsen will play at Santiago Bernabéu. Meanwhile, Barça will keep looking for solutions to strengthen its defense. Another market opportunity slips away due to lack of margin... and for moving a bit slower than the eternal rival.