
Anfield Index
·9 May 2025
Fabrizio Romano: Liverpool could act fast in race for young defender

Anfield Index
·9 May 2025
Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Liverpool are one of three Premier League clubs “pushing to sign” Dean Huijsen, the highly-rated centre-back with a €50 million release clause. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano explained: “The Premier League clubs—Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal—all these three is to do the deal now, as soon as possible.”
Romano emphasised the urgency from England, stating: “The idea of the Premier League clubs… is to close the deal this month.” That means by the end of May—weeks before the transfer window formally opens. This aligns with a growing trend of clubs seeking to complete major business early, especially for players with well-defined contractual terms.
Romano reiterated the financial framework surrounding the 19-year-old, who has impressed during his time with Bournemouth. “Remember 50M clause and Premier League interest,” Romano said. “There is clause there—50 million pounds available for all the clubs.”
The presence of that fixed figure has created a more competitive landscape. Romano added that the Huijsen saga is filled with daily speculation: “Every day we have different reports. Every day we have different stories.” Yet despite the noise, the interest from English clubs is concrete and consistent.
Liverpool’s inclusion in the chase adds weight to the narrative that the club are preparing for a long-term defensive refresh. Romano said clearly: “Liverpool absolutely there,” confirming the Merseyside club’s strong involvement. It marks a notable shift in Liverpool’s transfer posture, especially with questions surrounding their backline depth heading into Arne Slot’s first summer in charge.
While no formal agreement is yet in place, Romano’s update confirms that Liverpool want to be proactive: “Premier League clubs want to do the deal very fast.” That puts the pressure on other suitors—particularly those on the continent.
Though the Premier League trio lead the race, European heavyweights remain in the background. “Bayern like Huijsen but they need to sell a defender in order to make it happen,” Romano revealed. He explained that Bayern are constrained financially until outgoings are confirmed: “Players like Kim Min-jae, for example, they need to generate money.”
As for Real Madrid, Romano explained that the La Liga giants admire the player but are not prioritising him at this moment: “Real Madrid appreciation is 100% confirmed months ago… but Real Madrid are not today in terms of timing ready to go and sign the player immediately.”
With Bayern stalling and Madrid hesitant, Premier League clubs—especially Liverpool—are positioned to move quickly and decisively.
With the clause active and the window nearing, Romano summed it up best: “The feeling is that the Premier League clubs will be very aggressive, very strong.” Liverpool, Chelsea, and Arsenal appear ready to test that resolve—none more so than the Reds.