Real Madrid favour 19-year-old star over other centre-back targets for summer move | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s search for defensive reinforcements is gaining momentum, and according to a report by Jose Felix Díaz in MARCA, Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen has emerged as the club’s leading candidate.

With several centre-backs being considered at Valdebebas in recent weeks, Huijsen’s name is now at the forefront of Madrid’s defensive scouting efforts.

The Spanish giants are actively monitoring multiple options to bolster their backline, with Jorrel Hato, Ibrahima Konate, Castello Lukeba, and William Saliba all under consideration.

However, Huijsen is currently viewed as the most realistic signing due to his impressive development and the relative ease of negotiating a deal compared to other targets.

Huijsen’s rise in European football

The 19-year-old Dutch-born defender, who was once part of Malaga’s academy before making a move to Juventus, has developed into one of the most promising young centre-backs in European football.

A loan spell at Roma under Jose Mourinho showcased his composure on the ball, aerial dominance, and ability to play in a high defensive line.

Real Madrid really like Dean Huijsen. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

This has not gone unnoticed by Real Madrid’s sporting directors, who see Huijsen as a long-term asset capable of fitting seamlessly into their defensive structure.

Despite initial contact between Madrid and the player’s camp not yielding immediate results, the club’s growing admiration for Huijsen has reignited their interest.

Real Madrid’s defensive plans for future

With uncertainty surrounding David Alaba’s fitness and the club closely monitoring Antonio Rudiger’s workload, Real Madrid’s sporting department is already laying the groundwork for future defensive acquisitions.

While Eder Militao is expected to regain full fitness next season, the club wants to ensure they have sufficient depth to compete at the highest level.

As the season progresses, Real Madrid will continue evaluating their options before making a final decision on defensive reinforcements.

But for now, Huijsen is leading the race, with the Spanish giants keeping a close eye on his performances in the Premier League.

The coming months will determine whether Madrid makes a formal approach, but with the club always prioritising the best-emerging talents, Huijsen could soon be on his way to the Santiago Bernabeu if all the pieces fall into place.