Dean Huijsen is officially Real Madrid’s first signing of the summer. The club announced the deal just days ago: the Spanish center-back joins from Bournemouth on a contract running through June 30, 2025, with the English club reportedly receiving around €60 million. After a season plagued with defensive issues, Madrid hopes Huijsen will bring much-needed relief at the back.
An emotional farewell at Bournemouth
Huijsen played his final match for Bournemouth on Sunday, receiving a warm ovation from fans at Vitality Stadium. He capped off the occasion with an assist. Under manager Andoni Iraola, the club finished ninth in the Premier League after a season-ending loss to Manchester City dashed their European dreams.
Individually, Huijsen came close to being named Premier League’s Best Young Player, but the award went to Liverpool’s Ryan Gravenberch. The recognition, given to players aged 23 or younger at the start of the season, highlighted the strong performances of both midfielders and defenders across the league.
When will Huijsen be unveiled by Real Madrid?
Following his farewell and Real Madrid’s official announcement on May 17, reliable transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has reported that Huijsen will travel to Madrid this week for his official presentation. That means the Monday unveiling of Xabi Alonso may not be the only one this week.
Because of the packed calendar, the club is working quickly — and Huijsen could be introduced as early as midweek.
Set to join Spain for the Nations League
With the Premier League season now over, Huijsen has been included in Luis de la Fuente’s squad for the Spanish national team for the Nations League. Spain face France in the semifinal on June 5, and once the final squad is announced, players will report to training camp shortly afterward.
That means Huijsen’s first training sessions under Xabi Alonso will be delayed until after international duty. But barring any surprises or late injuries, the young defender is fully expected to be part of Real Madrid’s squad for the FIFA Club World Cup later this year.