Real Madrid are intensifying their search for a new center-back, with Bournemouth's Dean Huijsen emerging as a leading candidate. The 19-year-old defender, who was recently called up to the Spanish national team, has caught the eye of the Spanish giants, according to Marca.
Real Madrid's interest in Huijsen isn't new. As ESPN's Alex Kirkland explains, "Huijsen's profile has skyrocketed this season, starring for Bournemouth in the Premier League, but he was on Madrid's radar long before that." The club attempted to sign him in 2021, but he opted for Juventus instead.
Born in Amsterdam but raised in Málaga, Huijsen recently declared, "Spain is my home, I feel Spanish." After initially representing the Netherlands at youth level, he switched to Spain's under-21s last year and has now been included in the senior squad for this week's Nations League matches, ironically against the Netherlands.
Madrid's need for defensive reinforcement is becoming increasingly apparent. Current center-backs Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba are both 32, while Éder Militão, 27, has faced injury problems this season. According to Diario AS, Huijsen "meets the criteria" for a Madrid signing: his age, experience in a top league, and quality to reach the highest level.
Huijsen isn't the only defender on Real Madrid's radar. Ajax's Jorrel Hato, Liverpool's Ibrahima Konaté, RB Leipzig's Castello Lukeba, and Arsenal's William Saliba have also been mentioned as potential targets, though Saliba's price tag would likely be higher than Madrid would prefer.
In other transfer news, Manchester United are among six Premier League clubs interested in Sunderland midfielder Jobe Bellingham, according to TEAMtalk. The 19-year-old, brother of Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham, has impressed in the Championship this season. Brentford and Nottingham Forest are also keen, though Bellingham's contract at Sunderland runs until 2028, giving the club some leverage.
Meanwhile, Arsenal, West Ham United, and Newcastle United have all inquired about Fiorentina forward Moise Kean, Tuttomercato reports. The Italy international has rediscovered his form this season, scoring 15 goals in 26 Serie A games. His release clause is said to be around €52 million.
Barcelona remain open to parting ways with winger Ansu Fati, according to Fabrizio Romano. The 22-year-old has made just four LaLiga appearances this season and reportedly turned down five approaches in January, with more offers expected in the summer.
In the Middle East, Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr are reportedly preparing a bid for Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhães. Ben Jacobs reports that the club has already contacted the Brazilian's representatives, describing their interest as "serious." Arsenal are currently in discussions with Gabriel regarding a contract extension, with his current deal set to expire in June 2027.
Other rumors include Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga being open to a summer move to Manchester City due to frustration over his playing time, while Atlético Madrid's sporting director has dismissed reports linking Julián Alvarez with Liverpool as "incorrect."
Arsenal are planning new contract talks with Bukayo Saka, William Saliba, and young talents Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly, while Manchester City's Bernardo Silva reportedly wants to remain at the club until his contract expires next year.
Tottenham are among several Premier League clubs considering a move for Inter Miami's 19-year-old midfielder Benjamin Cremaschi, and West Ham are scouting England midfielder Angel Gomes, who will be available as a free agent when his Lille contract expires this summer.
