Dean Huijsen’s dream of playing for Real Madrid played a role in his decision to choose the Spanish national team. According to Spanish media, he admitted this during conversations with the Spanish football federation. After his performances in the Nations League double-header against the Netherlands, it seems the Madrid club has been sufficiently convinced.
Dean Huijsen’s international breakthrough has added a new chapter to one of the most intriguing emerging stories in European football.
The 20-year-old centre-back, born in Amsterdam but raised in Spain, made his debut for the Spanish national team in the Nations League double-header against the Netherlands. For Huijsen, who has represented Spain at various youth levels, the call-up to the senior team was the realisation of a long-standing ambition and, as he would later admit, a carefully calculated step in pursuit of an even bigger dream: playing for Real Madrid.
Currently playing for AFC Bournemouth in the Premier League, Huijsen has been on the radar of top European clubs since his early teenage years. His blend of technical ability, physical presence, and composure on the ball has drawn comparisons to some of the best modern defenders. Although born in the Netherlands, Huijsen moved to Málaga with his family when he was just four years old. He developed his footballing education in the Spanish system and has always felt a deep connection to the country. "I feel Spanish," he said after his debut at De Kuip. "This feels like home to me."
The double-header against the Netherlands was more than just a symbolic moment. It was a platform where Huijsen could showcase his talent at the highest level and he didn’t disappoint. His performances were mature, confident, and tactically sound. According to several Spanish outlets, Real Madrid scouts were in attendance and left thoroughly impressed. That impression seems to have translated into genuine interest, with the club reportedly targeting Huijsen as a key piece of their long-term defensive plans.
But what makes the story even more compelling is the revelation that Huijsen’s decision to represent Spain over the Netherlands may have been influenced by his desire to join Los Blancos. Spanish newspaper AS reported that during discussions with representatives of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), Huijsen openly admitted that his biggest dream was to wear the white shirt of Real Madrid. He also stated that choosing to play for La Roja would bring him closer to that goal, suggesting that his national allegiance and club ambition are closely intertwined.
Now, Real Madrid is said to be preparing a move for the talented defender, possibly as early as the summer of 2025. While Madrid’s interest is strong, the competition is fierce. Chelsea and Liverpool are also closely monitoring the situation, with both Premier League clubs eager to bring the Dutch-Spanish defender back to England on a long-term deal. Huijsen's composure, ball-playing abilities, and potential for growth make him an ideal fit for clubs looking to rebuild or refresh their defensive lines.
Inside the Bournemouth camp, there is also an awareness that Huijsen may not be around for much longer. Justin Kluivert, Huijsen’s teammate at the club and his recent international opponent during the Nations League fixtures, didn’t mince words when asked about the young defender’s future. "I don’t think Dean will still be with us next season," Kluivert said, acknowledging what many are already expecting: that Huijsen is destined for bigger things.
Despite the swirling rumours and transfer speculation, Huijsen remains focused on his current responsibilities. Bournemouth, who have enjoyed a solid run of form this season under Andoni Iraola, are preparing for one of their biggest matches yet: a home clash with Manchester City in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup, scheduled for Sunday, March 30th at 17:30. The fixture promises to be a massive test for the young defender, as he prepares to face the reigning Premier League champions and one of the most formidable attacking sides in world football.
That match may prove to be yet another audition not only for Real Madrid, but for every elite club watching. A strong performance against the likes of Erling Haaland, Kevin De Bruyne, and Phil Foden would only further cement Huijsen’s status as one of the most promising young defenders in Europe. More importantly, it would reinforce the belief that his rapid rise is not a coincidence but the result of talent, maturity, and a strategic path that has been carefully mapped out from the start.
For now, Huijsen continues to balance the weight of expectation with the composure that has made him such a sought-after figure. Whether his future lies in Madrid, Liverpool, London, or somewhere else entirely, one thing is clear: Dean Huijsen is no longer just a prospect he’s a player ready for the spotlight.
