Real Madrid have reportedly agreed all the details necessary to sign Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth, with the centre-back said to be undergoing a medical.
The Spaniard looked set to be at the heart of an intense transfer battle between numerous clubs, with other Premier League sides like Chelsea and Liverpool having been linked to the defender.
During his time on the south coast, the 20-year-old has separated himself amongst his positional peers thanks to his exceptional ability on the ball.
With Huijsen available for a fee of £50m due to the existence of a release clause, he would have had his pick of clubs to join in the summer, though it appears that he has already made his decision.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reports that the centre-back is currently undergoing a medical at Real Madrid in Spain and will sign a deal lasting until 2030.
© Imago
What will Chelsea and Liverpool do now?
While Real Madrid look set to gain one of Europe's finest young defenders, Chelsea and Liverpool will have to change their summer plans.
The Blues have faced constant difficulties in their backline this term, with injuries to the likes of Wesley Fofana forcing the club to recall Nathan Chalobah from his loan spell at Crystal Palace in January.
Centre-back Levi Colwill looks like he will be a stalwart in the Londoners' defence, but with Huijsen making the switch to Los Blancos, they may be forced to pivot to other targets.
Chelsea have been linked with a move for Lazio central defender Mario Gila, and his skill in possession would make him a suitable candidate for boss Enzo Maresca.
As for Liverpool, losing out on Huijsen could be particularly damaging considering there are question marks over a number of defenders, including Ibrahima Konate and Joe Gomez.
Captain Virgil van Dijk will be 34 years old by the time the 2025-26 season gets underway, and the Dutchman will need the burden in defence shared as he ages.
Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi has been touted as one potential option for manager Arne Slot, though it remains to be seen if the Reds will spend significant sums at the back given they are likely to reinforce in other areas as well.
Lewis Nolan
