Chelsea lead race for Bournemouth star

Chelsea have emerged as the frontrunners in the race to sign Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen, with the club aiming to complete a deal before the Club World Cup, according to The Independent.

The 20-year-old is reportedly giving serious consideration to Chelsea, who are one of several top clubs vying for his signature.

Huijsen, a Dutch-born Spain international, has a £50m release clause, and his suitors include Liverpool, Arsenal, and Newcastle United.

Real Madrid had shown interest but are not expected to make a move this summer. Chelsea are prepared to offer a lucrative package, which could involve a seven-year contract.

The defender fits the club’s ongoing strategy of acquiring the most promising young talents in world football.

Huijsen has quickly established himself as one of the Premier League’s standout centre-backs.

This year, he made his international debut for Spain after switching from the Netherlands.

A move to Chelsea would be part of what is shaping up to be another busy transfer window for the club, driven both by squad needs and the club’s long-term strategy.

Chelsea are also monitoring forward options, and significant changes are expected in their defensive lineup.

Bournemouth, on the other hand, anticipate that Huijsen, Antoine Semenyo, and Milos Kerkez could depart as part of their trading model, with the club likely to generate over £150m from player sales.

Meanwhile, Liverpool, Arsenal, and Manchester United are all keeping a close eye on Semenyo’s progress, as the three clubs look to strengthen their attacking options this summer.