Real Madrid eye former Juventus and Roma defender to ease injury crisis | OneFootball

Reports from Spain suggest that Real Madrid are interested in pursuing a deal for former Juventus and Roma defender Dean Huijsen to ease their injury woes at centre-back, just six months after the Bianconeri sold him to Premier League outfit Bournemouth.

Real Madrid interested in former Juventus and Roma defender Huijsen

According to reports from Diario AS, Huijsen is one of the standout defenders on Madrid’s wishlist, as they look to cover for injuries to Eder Militao, David Alaba, Dani Carvajal and the recent departure of Nacho Fernandez.

Carlo Ancelotti’s side have already been monitoring the former Juventus Next Gen defender for some time, dating back to his time in Spain in Malaga’s youth ranks.

Huijsen, who spent the second half of the 2023-24 campaign on loan with Roma, left Juventus on a permanent transfer in the summer, joining Bournemouth for a fee of just over €15m, plus up to €3m in bonuses.

Dean Huijsen of AS Roma makes his down the pitch during the friendly between AC Milan and AS Roma at Optus Stadium on May 31, 2024 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by James Worsfold/Getty Images)

Though a specific price has not been disclosed, Huijsen is expected to go for considerably more if Bournemouth are to sell him in the coming months.

The 19-year-old has only made 12 Premier League appearances, but has recently developed an eye for goal, netting twice in his last five appearances from centre-back, including one against Manchester United.

Dean Huijsen of AFC Bournemouth celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Premier League match between Manchester United FC and AFC Bournemouth at Old Trafford on December 22, 2024 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)

Born in the Netherlands, Huijsen holds dual citizenship and is also eligible to represent Spain. He has made seven appearances for La Roja’s U21 side over the last 12 months.