Real Madrid’s outgoing coach Carlo Ancelotti has heaped praise on Dean Huijsen, the Spanish defender born in the Netherlands.
With a defense plagued by injuries this season, Real Madrid have been actively searching for reinforcements—and they’ve finally secured one of their main targets. The Spanish giants have landed highly-rated young defender Dean Huijsen, much to the delight of head coach Carlo Ancelotti.
The 20-year-old center-back has signed a five-year deal with Real Madrid and will officially join the squad on June 1.
To bring Huijsen in from English side Bournemouth, Real Madrid had to trigger a hefty release clause. According to a statement from Bournemouth, the fee is £50 million.
Injuries have seriously hampered Madrid this season, with the club often forced to play without as many as 12 of their key players, especially in defense—a factor that has clearly impacted their performances on the pitch.
Real Madrid are yet to win any trophies this season, but they have a chance to bounce back in the 32-team Club World Cup taking place this June and July. Strengthening the defense ahead of that tournament was a top priority, which is why they moved quickly to secure Huijsen.
Though born in the Netherlands and having represented the country at youth levels, Huijsen has chosen to play for Spain at the senior level. He’s already made his debut for the former World Cup champions.
Huijsen impressed with Bournemouth, playing 34 matches across all competitions and catching the eye with his strong performances. Several clubs were interested in signing him, but ultimately, he chose Real Madrid.
Carlo Ancelotti is set to leave Real Madrid at the end of the season, having already agreed to take over as the head coach of the Brazil national team. If all goes according to plan, his final game in charge of Real will be against Real Sociedad.
On Saturday, ahead of Madrid’s La Liga clash with Sevilla, Ancelotti addressed the media and spoke about the club’s newest signing.
“He’s a fantastic young player with great potential. Bringing him in is a great move. I’m excited about every player who signs for Madrid, because this club always aims to be at the top,” Ancelotti said.
“Last year, signing him wasn’t even an option because David Alaba had returned, Éder Militão was in form, and Dani Carvajal was doing well. But injuries have really hurt us.”
