Real Madrid to battle Chelsea, Bayern for £50 million Premier League defender | OneFootball

The centre-back department at Real Madrid continues to create a debate given the lack of depth and the injury problems that have haunted them for two seasons in a row now.

Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba are both in their thirties and are battling physical problems while Eder Militao has had two back-to-back ACL injuries, leaving the club concerned about his level once he returns.

As such, it is not entirely ruled out that Real Madrid enter the market for a new centre-back in the summer, although it is not seen as a top priority thanks to the explosion of Raul Asencio this season.

Dean Huijsen a target

If Real Madrid decide to go after a new central defender come summer, AFC Bournemouth starlet Dean Huijsen is seen as a potential target, reports the Daily Mail.

The 19-year-old is enjoying a breakthrough season in the Premier League having joined the Cherries from Juventus last summer.

Huijsen has been brilliant in his debut season in England. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images)

Huijsen’s performances for Andoni Iraola’s side have garnered him a lot of admirers in the upper echelons of European football.

Real Madrid, for one, have taken an interest in the teenage Spaniard while Bundesliga record champions Bayern Munich are also keen.

Premier League heavy-spenders Chelsea are also tracking Huijsen, along with Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United.

Given the number of top clubs interested as well as the fact that he has a £50 million release clause in his contract at Bournemouth, a summer departure seems likely for the youngster.

Only time will tell whether Real Madrid decide to act on their interest in Huijsen or opt to stick to their long-term vision and move for William Saliba in 2026, when he enters the final year of his contract at Arsenal.