Dean Huijsen: Real Madrid’s New Defensive Star | Transfer News 2025

 

Who is Dean Huijsen?

Dean Huijsen is a young, talented central defender in European football, born in 2005 in Amsterdam. He grew up playing youth football in Spain (after his family moved there) and joined Málaga’s academy, then later moved to Juventus youth ranks.

 

Before 2025, he spent time in Juventus, had a loan at Roma, and then moved to AFC Bournemouth in the English Premier League.  At Bournemouth, he made his mark by not just defending, but also by scoring — becoming the youngest goalscorer for the club in the Premier League. 

In 2025, his career took a big leap: Real Madrid activated his release clause and signed him on a five-year deal. 

Why is he trending now?

Several reasons make Dean Huijsen a hot name in football circles at this moment:

1. Big transfer to Real Madrid

In May 2025, Real Madrid confirmed they would pay ~£50 million (or the equivalent release clause) to bring Huijsen from Bournemouth.He was officially presented in June with the number 24 shirt. 

This move makes him Real Madrid’s most expensive defender (at least in terms of what the club paid for him).

2. High expectations and pressure

Because of the big price tag and the club’s prestige, there’s a lot of buzz about whether he can deliver at such a top level so early.

However, Huijsen has publicly said he doesn’t let the pressure get to him: “I’m quite calm … Madrid is the club of my life.”

3. Alignment with Real Madrid’s next era

His signing comes under a new managerial era — Xabi Alonso will take charge, and Huijsen is seen as part of the club’s future core.  He’s already had discussions with Alonso about his role. 

Madrid is reportedly even considering not signing a new midfielder depending on how Huijsen performs — showing how much faith is being placed in him. 

4. International profile & style of play

Huijsen switched his international allegiance (having represented Netherlands youth teams earlier) and now plays for Spain. 

He is praised for being a ball-playing centre-back, comfortable both in defense and stepping forward to intercept or initiate plays. 

In one match for Spain in the Nations League, he even hit a volley that showed off his technical ability (though disallowed).

What are people saying & reactions

• In his presentation press conference, Huijsen said: “I want to win it all, I’m very ambitious.” 

• He admitted that the move to Madrid wasn’t something he had planned so early — he thought he might stay longer at Bournemouth to develop. 

• His father made headlines making a dig at Barcelona, Atletico, and Manchester City via social media after Huijsen’s move. 

• Real Madrid President Florentino Pérez described him as “a modern centre-back, ready for the present and the future.”

• Some pundits believe Huijsen could turn out to be one of Madrid’s best signings in recent years, given his blend of youth and ability. 

What to watch going forward

1. First appearances & adaptation: How quickly he adjusts to La Liga and Real Madrid’s style.

2. Defensive stability: Whether he can bring composure under pressure in big matches.

3. Synergy with Xabi Alonso’s tactics: Will he fit seamlessly into the system Alonso wants to deploy?

4. Longevity & growth: He’s young, so how he develops over the next few seasons will define whether this hype is justified.

5. International role: Whether he solidifies himself in Spain’s defense long term.

Final Thoughts

Dean Huijsen is one of the most talked-about young defenders in 2025. His move to Real Madrid marks a pivotal moment in his career, and expectations are sky high. But he seems to have the temperament, technique, and ambition to make a lasting impact. Whether he becomes a legend or just another promising name will depend on consistency, growth, and moments of brilliance.