Chelsea “really appreciate” Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.
The Spanish Under 21 international only joined the Cherries from Juventus at the start of the season but it is believed that the centre-half has a release clause in his contract that can be triggered this summer. While not every fan on X is convinced that the Blues should pursue another young player, the majority feel that Huijsen would be an upgrade on what Enzo Maresca currently has in his squad:
Bring him to Chelsea
— Enzo (@enzo08fernandez) January 26, 2025
Better than Cowill
— Josh_CFC (@Joshua_Cfc) January 26, 2025
Huijsen has massive potential to grow.
— Ayisha (@AyishaBio) January 26, 2025
Hes the one
— Marco (@ProperChels012) January 26, 2025
If you don’t buy now more clubs will be on to him in the summer which makes it even more difficult
— Mark (@Marko_M27) January 26, 2025
Yes! Replace Colwill ASAP!
— L I M E R I C K (@limerick4real) January 26, 2025
What do fans need to know about Huijsen?
The 19-year-old was actually born in Amsterdam but he spent most of his early life in Spain, coming through the Costa Unida and Malaga academies prior to his switch to Juve in the summer of 2021.
Huijsen made his senior debut for the Old Lady against AC Milan in October 2023 before spending the second half of last season out on loan at Roma.
During his time at the Giallorossi, the Spaniard made 14 appearances in total, scoring his first professional goal against Cagliari in a 4-0 win. He returned to Turin in July ahead of joining Bournemouth in a deal worth up to £15.2m.
Chelsea do want to to sign a centre-back
Heading into January, it was reported by Romano (among others) that reinforcing the middle of defence was a top priority.
However, most of the activity so far has centred around recruiting a forward. It remains to be seen whether the Blues will step up their interest in Huijsen this month.
Find out who is in Chelsea’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here