**”£50m Premier League star prefers move to Real Madrid ahead of Liverpool and Arsenal.”*

Liverpool and Arsenal suffer major setback in pursuit of Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen

Liverpool and Arsenal have received a major setback in their efforts to sign Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen this summer.

Both Premier League heavyweights have shown strong interest in the 20-year-old Spanish centre-back following his standout displays under Andoni Iraola this season. Huijsen’s contract includes a £50 million release clause, reportedly payable in three installments, making the deal financially attractive for suitors.

Thanks to his impressive Premier League performances, Huijsen has become one of Europe’s most in-demand defenders, drawing attention from Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea, and Bayern Munich.

However, journalist David Ornstein reports that Huijsen’s preferred destination is Real Madrid, rather than a move to another Premier League side.

There is a silver lining for English clubs though — Ornstein notes that Real Madrid are not actively pursuing a move for Huijsen at this time.

“It’s no surprise so many clubs are considering activating his £50m release clause, which offers good value,” said Ornstein. “Leading the race, alphabetically, are Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool, with others like Newcastle United and Tottenham also in the mix.”

He added, “Real Madrid is the club that appeals most to Huijsen, but as of now, there’s no sign they will move for him. Both Bournemouth and the player are keen to resolve his future quickly, so a Premier League transfer currently appears most likely.”

Liverpool see Huijsen as a potential long-term successor to Virgil van Dijk, while Mikel Arteta is aiming to strengthen Arsenal’s defensive options.

With several clubs vying for his signature, the competition for Huijsen promises to be intense.

Separately, Liverpool are also reportedly targeting West Ham’s Mohamed Kudus to boost their attack.