“I See Him in a Good Place” – Andoni Iraola Responds to Liverpool’s Interest in Dean Huijsen | OneFootball

Dean Huijsen Unfazed by Transfer Speculation as Iraola Keeps Bournemouth Focused

In a season of pleasant surprises for AFC Bournemouth, few have been more impressive than Dean Huijsen. The 20-year-old centre-back, on loan from Juventus, has not only cemented his place in Andoni Iraola’s starting eleven but done so with a level of maturity that belies his years. It’s no wonder, then, that his name has cropped up in transfer conversations involving some of the biggest clubs in Europe – not least Liverpool and Real Madrid.

Huijsen has played every minute of Bournemouth’s last 18 Premier League fixtures, a remarkable run for a player still at the beginning of his top-flight career. That level of consistency, combined with his composure on the ball and tactical awareness, has made him a standout performer for the Cherries this term.

Photo IMAGO

Iraola’s Calm Amid the Transfer Storm

Speaking ahead of a crucial run-in that could yet propel Bournemouth into contention for European football, manager Andoni Iraola was keen to downplay any concerns over the young defender’s focus amid mounting speculation.

“My only concern with Dean is he keeps his focus here. I see he trains very well. He’s very focused on improving individually, improving us as a team collectively,” said Iraola, clearly unfazed by the noise swirling around his player.

“He knows we have seven very important games ahead of us and I see him in a really good place. No, I don’t think the noise around is affecting him and I see him in a good place.”

That composure and perspective – both from the player and his manager – may prove critical as Bournemouth aim to finish the season strongly. The south coast club are winless in six but remain within touching distance of the top half, currently 10th in the table. A European spot is not entirely out of reach.

Photo: IMAGO

Liverpool and Real Madrid Circle

What makes Huijsen’s situation particularly intriguing is the calibre of clubs reportedly interested. Liverpool, entering a summer of transition under incoming manager Arne Slot, are thought to be assessing centre-back options, particularly given long-term concerns over Ibrahima Konaté’s fitness and depth behind Virgil van Dijk. Real Madrid, meanwhile, are no strangers to nurturing youthful defensive talent – and are said to have been tracking Huijsen since his Juventus days.

To complicate matters, the defender has confirmed that a release clause exists in his Bournemouth contract, which could prompt movement as early as this summer. While the details remain under wraps, that clause adds an element of urgency for potential suitors.

“I try not to start thinking in the problems of the summer now. I have enough problems now and I have seven important games to play and we are fighting for important things. I’m not thinking in these things,” added Iraola.

Keeping the Spotlight Where It Matters

For all the speculation, there’s a sense that Huijsen himself is doing everything in his power to keep the spotlight on the pitch. “I know that you speak, but for me the focus is Fulham on Monday and I really don’t think in the things that may happen or may not or we don’t know. That’s my focus,” said Iraola, firmly shutting the door on distractions for now.

In many ways, this is exactly what clubs like Liverpool and Real Madrid want to see – a young player not only performing at a high level but showing a professionalism that fits the elite level. Whether Bournemouth can hold onto Huijsen beyond this season is another matter, but there’s little doubt his trajectory is trending upwards – and fast.

With a manager who has instilled structure and belief, and a player showcasing the kind of calm assurance that makes top clubs take notice, AFC Bournemouth may soon find themselves part of one of the summer’s major transfer narratives.