Latest developments
- Chelsea eyeing Dean Huijsen move.
- Bournemouth are bracing themselves for summer interest.
- Real Madrid are in pole position for the Premier League star.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3.5/5): Chelsea eyeing Huijsen swoop
Real Madrid are believed to be leading the race to sign the highly-rated Bournemouth defender in the summer transfer window.
However, according to Cadena SER, Chelsea will make an effort to hijack Real Madrid's bid, with the Premier League club willing to offer him a higher salary than the Spanish giants.
Value (3/5): Bournemouth looking to make significant profit
Bournemouth signed Huijsen from Juventus last summer for an initial £12.8m fee, with the possibility that it could rise to £15.3m depending on certain add-ons.
The Cherries will want to make a sizeable profit on their investment if they are to part ways after just one year. Previous reports have suggested they could demand at least £50m for a player who is under contract until the summer of 2030.
Suitability (4/5): Intelligent defender
Huijsen has already proven he is comfortable playing in the Premier League during his 23 top-flight appearances as a Bournemouth player. The 19-year-old is a brilliant reader of the game, demonstrated by the fact he is in the Premier League's top 10 for interceptions this season.
Upgrade? (4/5): Colwill partner
Chelsea can currently call upon Tosin Adarabioyo, Trevoh Chalobah and Benoit Badiashile as their options to partner Levi Colwill in central defence. Enzo Maresca does not appear convinced that the trio should be guaranteed starters, while there are concerns about Wesley Fofana's injury issues over the last few years.
With that in mind, the Blues may view Huijsen as a strong candidate to feature in central defence with Colwill.
Logic (1.5/5): Real Madrid in pole position
Huijsen has previously admitted it is an honour to be linked with Real Madrid, and it seems that the Spain international has his heart set on a move to the Santiago Bernabeu.
Whisper+ verdict: 16/25
From Chelsea's perspective, it would be a smart piece of business if they could add Huijsen to Maresca's squad. However, it seems difficult to see how they will be able to beat Real Madrid to his signature.
