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Madrid, May 16, 2025, Real Madrid officially signed Dutch-Spanish defender Dean Huijsen from AFC Bournemouth.
The 20-year-old is penning a five-year contract at the Santiago Bernabéu. The total transfer fee for the highly-rated centre-back is reported to be €50 million, marking one of the most significant moves of the summer window.
Dean Huijsen is a Statement Signing for Madrid
🚨 BREAKING: Real Madrid agree all details of deal to sign Dean Huijsen, here we go! 🤍⭐️
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 16, 2025
Huijsen undergoing medical NOW then set to sign five year deal until 2030, Real Madrid will pay £50m to Bournemouth.
Real see Huijsen as top talent and Xabi Alonso wanted to bring him in. pic.twitter.com/P4K9nK63bN
Real Madrid activated Huijsen’s release clause after closely monitoring his impressive rise in the Premier League and his growing reputation as one of Europe’s most promising young defenders.
Despite interest from major clubs such as Chelsea, Bayern Munich, Manchester United, and Arsenal, Huijsen opted to move to the Spanish capital, fulfilling what he described as a “childhood dream.”
Financials and Contract Details
The five-year deal will keep Huijsen at Real Madrid until June 2030. Reports suggest that Huijsen turned down more lucrative offers from other clubs in favor of joining Los Blancos. His contract will see him earn a gross salary starting at €9 million, potentially rising to €11 million in the final year, depending on performance-related bonuses.
Reinforcing a Depleted Defense
Real Madrid’s backline endured a turbulent 2024/25 campaign, with long-term injuries to David Alaba, Éder Militão, and Antonio Rüdiger exposing their defensive frailties. The signing of Huijsen is a key part of the club’s long-term planning, particularly with new manager Xabi Alonso set to usher in a fresh tactical era.
Huijsen’s ability to play out from the back, coupled with his composure under pressure and aerial dominance, makes him an ideal fit for Alonso’s progressive style of football.
From Málaga to Madrid: The Rise of Dean Huijsen
Born in the Netherlands but raised in Spain, Huijsen began his youth career at Málaga before moving to Juventus, where he made his professional debut. He spent time on loan at AS Roma and then at Bournemouth, where he developed into a top-level defender under manager Andoni Iraola.
In the 2024/25 season, he was instrumental in helping Bournemouth secure a mid-table finish, earning rave reviews for his mature performances and leadership at the heart of the defense. His form also earned him a senior call-up to the Spanish national team, where he debuted earlier this year.
Second Big Signing of the Summer
Huijsen becomes Real Madrid’s second summer marquee signing, following the arrival of England international Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool. Both additions are seen as vital in Madrid’s plan to maintain domestic and European dominance, particularly with the expanded FIFA Club World Cup on the horizon.
Looking Ahead
Huijsen will join Madrid for preseason training in July and is expected to compete immediately for a starting role. With his maturity, technical ability, and unwavering commitment to wearing the white shirt, Dean Huijsen looks poised to be a cornerstone of Real Madrid’s defense for years to come.
Q: Why did Dean Huijsen join Real Madrid?
A: He always dreamed of playing for Real Madrid and chose them over bigger offers from other clubs.
Q: How much did Real Madrid pay for him?
A: Real Madrid paid Bournemouth €50 million for the transfer.
Q: What will be his role in the team?
A: He will strengthen the defense and is expected to play regularly, especially with other defenders injured.
