Chelsea risk missing out on Dean Huijsen as Real Madrid ramp up talks | OneFootball

Real Madrid have stepped up their pursuit of highly-rated defender Dean Huijsen, leaving Chelsea at risk of missing out on one of their top defensive targets this summer.

The Telegraph reports that the Spanish giants are growing increasingly confident of securing a deal for the Bournemouth centre-back.

The 20-year-old is available for an affordable £50 million, which can be paid in three instalments.

He’s seen as a valuable investment and several clubs are hot on his trail, but Madrid look primed to get to him first.

Chelsea were considered front-runners to sign the Dutch-born Spain international, but Los Blancos have moved ahead in negotiations.

They have opened talks with Huijsen’s representatives and are willing to offer a more lucrative salary package than Chelsea.

The financial structure of the release clause also works in Madrid’s favour. Their sporting project under incoming manager Xabi Alonso is believed to be a key factor in swaying the young defender.

Madrid’s growing confidence doesn’t automatically remove Chelsea from the picture, but it makes things more difficult for the Blues.

Enzo Maresca’s side want to add a centre-back to their ranks to step in for the injury-prone Wesley Fofana, and Huijsen checked all their boxes.

At such a young age, the Spaniard has shown that he has the maturity to slot in seamlessly in any team around the world.

Chelsea are still trying to convince Huijsen, but with Madrid ramping up talks, they may be better off exploring other options.

Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi and Ajax star Jorrel Hato are among other centre-backs on Chelsea’s shortlist. The Blues will create space in their squad with a number of sales.

Aston Villa loanee Axel Disasi is among those likely to be sold, while Trevoh Chalobah’s future is also in question despite a string of impressive performances.

Maresca holds Fofana in high regard, but his injury record could force Chelsea to consider any decent offers.

While Chelsea are trying to sort out defensive issues, the Blues are also expected to target a striker and a left winger this summer.