Report: Real Madrid Move Could End Liverpool Hopes for Defensive Target | OneFootball

Dean Huijsen’s Rise and Real Madrid’s Shadow Looming Over Liverpool

Rising Star in High Demand

Dean Huijsen’s name may not have lit up the back pages a year ago, but fast forward to May 2025 and he’s firmly in the spotlight. The 20-year-old centre-back has enjoyed a breakout campaign at Bournemouth, showing poise beyond his years and prompting a scramble among Europe’s elite. Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, Newcastle, and Real Madrid have all shown genuine interest. But it’s the Spaniards who may have just stolen a march.

After arriving from Juventus for just £12.8 million last summer, Huijsen’s value has soared—backed not only by his Premier League performances but also by a favourable release clause reportedly set at £50 million. What makes the deal even more enticing is the rare option to pay in three installments, a detail that has kept financial powerhouses on alert.

Liverpool’s Cautious Courtship

Liverpool, as confirmed by David Ornstein, have held early discussions with Huijsen’s representatives. Their intent is clear. With Virgil van Dijk entering the twilight of his career and Ibrahima Konaté’s fitness record under scrutiny, the Reds are on the hunt for the next defensive pillar. Huijsen, with his physicality, composure, and tactical intelligence, fits that profile.

Photo IMAGO

Despite being tied to Bournemouth until 2030, there’s a growing belief that the club may be forced to cash in—especially with Chelsea already submitting a formal offer. But Liverpool’s measured approach could soon be made redundant by a familiar adversary.

Madrid’s Power Play

Antón Meana of Cadena SER reported this week that Real Madrid have accelerated plans to sign Huijsen. Alongside Arsenal’s William Saliba, Huijsen is part of a two-man shortlist. Crucially, the Spaniard is believed to be edging ahead, with Madrid keen to wrap up a deal before the Club World Cup begins. Their plan? To embed Huijsen early, with an eye on succession planning for Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba.

His admiration for Sergio Ramos only intensifies Madrid’s allure. In April, when asked about the links, Huijsen was diplomatic but didn’t rule anything out:

When prodded about a move, he added:

It’s the sort of response that suggests Madrid’s gravitational pull might prove too strong—even for a club as iconic as Liverpool.

Liverpool’s Transfer Frustration Repeats

If the Reds do lose out, it won’t be the first time. From Aurélien Tchouaméni to Jude Bellingham, Real Madrid have a knack for swooping in late and winning the race. And with Huijsen’s idol playing his best years in white, the writing may already be on the wall.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

For Liverpool supporters, this saga is all too familiar. A talented young player is earmarked for the club’s future, talks begin, hope brews… and then Real Madrid enter. It’s not just about the money or the prestige—it’s about the timing. Liverpool’s cautious, data-driven approach in the market is admirable but often leads to missed opportunities when clubs like Madrid move swiftly and decisively.

The disappointment around Huijsen potentially choosing Madrid is steeped in more than just missed potential. He looks tailor-made for a Liverpool system under Arne Slot: brave in possession, strong in duels, and tactically switched on. This isn’t just about losing a transfer race—it’s about what Liverpool are building, and what they could miss.

As Madrid prepare to regenerate their defence, Liverpool fans will be watching with frustration if Huijsen joins a long list of ‘almost signed’. A signing of his calibre wouldn’t just fill a gap, it would send a statement. But if that statement comes from the Bernabéu instead, Liverpool must act quickly to avoid another painful repeat.