Real Madrid have officially announced their first signing for the 2025 summer transfer window, confirming the arrival of highly rated Spanish defender Dean Huijsen. The 20-year-old, who has been tracked by several top Premier League clubs including Chelsea, Liverpool, and Newcastle, has chosen to join Los Blancos in a deal that highlights the club’s focus on youth and long-term planning.
Real Madrid activate £50m release clause to sign Huijsen
Both Real Madrid and AFC Bournemouth released official statements confirming that an agreement has been reached for the transfer of Dean Huijsen. The young defender will sign a five-year contract, which will run from June 1, 2025 to June 30, 2030.
“Real Madrid C.F. and AFC Bournemouth have reached an agreement for the transfer of player Dean Huijsen, who is linked to our club for the next five seasons.”
The club has triggered the £50 million release clause, securing one of Spain’s brightest talents. Huijsen, despite his young age, has already gained valuable experience playing for Juventus, AS Roma, and more recently in the Premier League with Bournemouth.
Rising star with international experience
Huijsen is not just a promising player—he is already an international for Spain, and his performances have earned him a nomination for the 2024–25 Premier League Best Young Player award. His versatility, composure, and physical presence make him an ideal fit for Xabi Alonso’s tactical system, especially with the manager expected to deploy a 3-4-3 or 3-4-2-1 formation next season.
Joining Real Madrid at just 20 years old gives him time to develop further under the guidance of world-class staff and alongside elite teammates. The club sees him as both a present contributor and a cornerstone for the future.
More summer signings expected for Real Madrid
Huijsen is expected to be the first of multiple arrivals this summer. Real Madrid have already reached a pre-agreement with Trent Alexander-Arnold, and reports suggest Álvaro Carreras will also arrive from Benfica. A new midfielder is said to be high on the club’s wish list too.
All of these signings are part of a strategy to strengthen the squad ahead of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, which will feature a new, expanded format. Real Madrid aim to be fully competitive and are assembling a squad that mixes talent, depth, and youth.
MadridistasZone Opinion:
The signing of Dean Huijsen reflects Real Madrid’s excellent scouting and bold investment in future stars. As a Real Madrid fan, I’m excited to see how he integrates into the squad. With more signings on the way, the 2025-26 season is already looking very promising. If Huijsen lives up to expectations, he could be the next defensive icon at the Bernabéu.