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For the past few months, Liverpool fans have kept a close eye on the transfer market, especially when it comes to young defenders.

With Arne Slot taking over last summer and leading Liverpool to the title, the Reds were expected to go all out for long-term defensive reinforcements ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

They made their move too, showing strong interest and holding talks, but in the end, it wasn’t enough to get the deal over the line.

One name had floated around the club’s radar for a while.

He fit the bill: young, talented, and already tested at the top level.

Many believed Liverpool had a real shot at landing him.

But then came the twist.

Another club moved fast.

And with the player’s contract situation and release clause in play, it quickly turned into a race.

Liverpool had the interest.

But Real Madrid had the plan—and the money.

In the end, the player made his call.

And it wasn’t the one fans at Anfield wanted to hear.

Real Madrid have officially confirmed the signing of Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth, beating Liverpool to the 20-year-old’s signature.

The club announced the deal with a formal statement on their website, “Real Madrid CF

and AFC Bournemouth have reached an agreement for the transfer of Dean Huijsen, who will be linked to our club for the next five seasons, from 1 June 2025 to 30 June 2030.”

“At his 20 years of age, Dean Huijsen is already a Spain international and has played in Italy’s Serie A with Juventus and Roma, and in the Premier League with Bournemouth.”

“Dean Huijsen has been nominated for Premier League Young Player of the Year 2024-2025”

Madrid will pay Bournemouth the €58 million release clause in three instalments.

That makes Huijsen the most expensive defender in Real Madrid history, overtaking the €50 million they paid for Éder Militão back in 2019.

This deal is the first signing of the Xabi Alonso era, with the Spanish coach expected to take over next season.

Huijsen’s arrival gives Madrid a big boost ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup, which kicks off in the U.S.

from June 14 to July 13.

He is also a contender for the Premier League Young Player of the Year award.

Liverpool were in the race but were edged out.

Huijsen turned down other offers last week, and his agents flew to Madrid to finalise the transfer.

He will stay with Bournemouth for their last two matches before linking up with Madrid.

The defender will earn €9 million per year, with bonuses that could raise it to €10.7 million.

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