Chelsea have opened talks with Dean Huijsen after informing AFC Bournemouth of their willingness to activate release clause. The Blues face competition from Liverpool, with Real Madrid keeping tabs.
Chelsea have become the first team to inform AFC Bournemouth of their intentions to activate the release clause in Dean Huijsen’s contract. The Spaniard has a ยฃ50 million clause in his contract that can be activated this summer.
The young center-back joined Juventus last summer for a reported ยฃ12.5 million fee. Bournemouth are now set to pocket almost 300% profit on the youngster who has been one of the best in the Premier League this season.
Chelsea see Huijsen as the ideal center-back for their project and a long-term replacement for Wesley Fofana. FootMercato have reported that the Blues are open to letting the Frenchman leave after the season as he has struggled with injury issues.
Enzo Maresca’s side are not alone in the race for Huijsen as Liverpool, Manchester United and Arsenal are also keeping tabs. The Reds are the serious contenders as they look at the Bournemouth star as the long-term replacement for their captain, Virgil van Dijk, who has signed a new deal at Anfield.
Chelsea are ahead in the race right now as they can offer him regular first-team football straightaway. However, Real Madrid are the ultimate dream for the Spaniard but they are undecided and are waiting for the season to get over before making their move.
Huijsen’s entourage have asked for a release clause in his contract in initial talks with all clubs, but Chelsea have not agreed to those terms. As things stand, the youngster will not have a release clause in his contract should he agree to the 7-year deal offered with the option of another season.
Chelsea want to get the deal done before FIFA Club World Cup this summer.