Man Utd transfer news: Red Devils to fight off competition for £50m defender? Whisper+ verdict

Ruben Amorim
Photo by IMAGO

Latest developments

  • Manchester United are following Dean Huijsen.
  • United face competition from Chelsea for the Bournemouth star.
  • Bournemouth want to extend the centre-back's contract.

Whisper+ analysis

Authenticity (3/5): CaughtOffside confirm United's interest

Manchester United are among the clubs chasing Dean Huijsen, who has raised plenty of eyebrows with his astute performances for Bournemouth following his transfer from Juventus last summer.

The story comes from CaughtOffside, who add that Chelsea are also set to battle for his signature.

Value (3.5/5): Bournemouth looking to boost his valuation

The 19-year-old's Cherries contract includes a release clause worth £50 million. Considering his potential, the figure may be considered reasonable by his suitors, who could steal the talent from Bournemouth after just 12 months at the club.

Accordingly, they are looking to hand their star central defender a new deal to increase the value of his release clause.

Suitability (3.5/5): Technically proficient

Capable of playing with both feet, Huijsen has impressed with his technical ability and tactical intelligence. The Netherlands-born defender who plays for Spain's U21 side would be a great fit at any club looking to play a progressive brand of football.

Upgrade? (4/5): Martinez replacement

United have plenty of right-sided centre-backs but only one senior defender capable of playing on the opposite side: Lisandro Martinez. However, the Argentine has struggled with injuries during his time in Manchester.

Huijsen, who plays a similar role under Andoni Iraola, could be a promising replacement for the injury-prone defender.

Logic (2.5/5): Plenty of suitors

Apart from Chelsea, United face competition from the likes of Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona for Huijsen's services.

Should these clubs make concrete approaches, it's tough to see the Red Devils stand out as an appealing option considering their form this season.

Whisper+ verdict: 16.5/25

If Bournemouth fail to increase the value of Huijsen's release clause, it may be very tough for them to keep hold of their new star.


Vishal is a writer and editor with over five years of experience in the football space. A graduate in English Literature from Delhi University, he is a Manchester United supporter and a big admirer of ball-playing centre-backs.