Liverpool begin negotiations to secure £29m talent praised as ‘the complete package.’

Liverpool have reportedly taken their first step in pursuing one of the most sought-after young talents in European football.

Bournemouth’s unexpected push for a Champions League spot has drawn attention to several of their key players, with Milos Kerkez and Antoine Semenyo among those linked with moves away. Liverpool have also been credited with interest in another standout performer from Andoni Iraola’s squad, as they continue preparations for the summer transfer window.

Liverpool open talks for Huijsen

According to CaughtOffside, Liverpool have initiated discussions to sign Dean Huijsen, following earlier claims from Graeme Bailey that the club had been tracking the young defender.

Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur have also expressed interest in the 19-year-old, with Premier League clubs expected to submit offers in the region of €30m-€35m (£25.2m-£29.4m). However, Bournemouth are keen to extend Huijsen’s contract and increase his valuation amid rising interest from top clubs that see him as a ‘unique talent.’

Could Huijsen be Van Dijk’s long-term heir?

Huijsen’s arrival at Bournemouth last summer was seen as a major coup, given his first-team experience with both Roma and Juventus. The teenage centre-back has quickly adapted to the Premier League, forming a formidable partnership with Illia Zabarnyi. Joe Partington of Cherries: Unpicked even described them as ‘everything you would want from a defensive centre-back pairing’ [via BBC Sport].

One of Huijsen’s standout qualities is his ability to play comfortably with both feet—something Liverpool’s current centre-backs lack, as they are predominantly right-footed. Additionally, the presence of former Bournemouth sporting director Richard Hughes at Anfield could give Liverpool an edge in negotiations.

If he were to join, Huijsen would face stiff competition for a starting spot, likely serving as a backup to Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté initially. However, given the 14-year age gap between Van Dijk and Huijsen, Liverpool may view him as a long-term successor to their captain.

With several Bournemouth stars potentially on the move this summer—especially if they fail to secure European football—Liverpool appear to have made their intentions clear regarding Huijsen. Now, it remains to be seen if these early talks develop into a formal bid in the coming weeks.