The father of Chelsea transfer target Dean Huijsen was “in London” on Friday to hold meetings with various clubs, according to reports.

It is believed that the Blues are one of the leading contenders to sign the Bournemouth defender and The Mirror claim that his Dad, Donny, is heavily involved in deciding his son’s future.

The Spanish international has a £50m release clause in his contract, and it is likely that he will join another Premier League team at the end of the season.

Huijsen is known to be a fan of Real Madrid, but the Spanish giants are not expected to get involved in the battle for the teenager’s signature, leaving the way clear for Chelsea and other English clubs.

Who are the favourites to sign Huijsen?

In addition to the Blues, reports suggest that Liverpool and Arsenal are the two other most likely destinations for the centre-back. Newcastle and Tottenham have also held conversations with the player’s entourage but they are not among the frontrunners.

The Mirror have said that there are question marks over Arsenal’s interest as well. The cost of triggering Huijsen’s buyout clause may yet see the Gunners bow out of the race for his services.

Chelsea need reinforcements in the middle of defence

The 2-2 draw against Ipswich Town at the weekend once again demonstrated the soft centre at the heart of Enzo Maresca’s team. Neither Tosin Adarabioyo nor Levi Colwill played particularly well versus the Tractor Boys.

With Wesley Fofana’s injury woes continuing too, adding a new centre-half to the squad will be a top priority for co-sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Lawrence Stewart. It remains to be seen, though, whether they can persuade Huijsen into making the switch to Stamford Bridge.

Find out who is in Chelsea’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here