Chelsea have reportedly emerged as the frontrunners to secure a deal for one of Bournemouth's star defenders during the summer transfer window.
Despite their recent indifferent form, the Cherries have been one of the surprise packages of the 2024-25 Premier League campaign.
However, while some shrewd pieces of business have left Andoni Iraola's side in the mix for European qualification, the downside is bigger clubs circling for their respective signatures.
Both Milos Kerkez and Dean Huijsen have played key roles in Bournemouth's campaign, the South Coast outfit possessing the joint-fourth best defensive record in England's top flight.
Nevertheless, as per The Independent, Chelsea are preparing to make a major play for Spain international Huijsen's signature over the coming months.
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Huijsen warming to Chelsea interest?
The report claims that the 19-year-old is now seriously considering making a switch to Stamford Bridge once the market reopens in June.
While Real Madrid have been credited as admirers in the past, and Huijsen allegedly being open to a transfer to the Bernabeu, an approach this summer is said to be unlikely.
With Huijsen possessing a £50m release clause, Premier League clubs now seemingly have a clear path to his signature with Liverpool, Arsenal and Newcastle United other teams that have been linked.
Nevertheless, it is suggested that Chelsea are now the favourites for the youngster and they would be prepared to offer him a seven-year contract.
In his first season in the Premier League, Huijsen has made 22 starts and five substitute outings, contributing two goals and one assist.
Bournemouth committed to a deal potentially worth €18.2m (£15.6m) when signing Huijsen from Juventus, putting them in prime position to make almost £35m in profit based on one season's work.
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Would Huijsen be first choice at Chelsea?
Of the current centre-backs at Chelsea, Wesley Fofana and Levi Colwill are the undisputed first-choice picks if fit, but Fofana has continued to suffer injury issues.
Therefore, a position alongside Colwill is up for grabs, particularly when Trevoh Chalobah is expected to be sold and Tosin Adarabioyo has been in and out of the team.
Huijsen is only likely to consider a move to Chelsea if he is line to become first choice, aware he has better-performing clubs in the race for his signature.
Chelsea will realistically also have to deliver European football; two wins from their final five Premier League games would almost certainly lead to a top-seven finish in the standings.
Darren Plant
