Real Madrid rivalled by Man United in race for €18m-rated Premier League defender | OneFootball

Given the situation of their current defensive roster and the number of injury problems plaguing them, it was a surprise that Real Madrid did not bring in any reinforcements during the January transfer window.

However, the reigning Spanish champions plan to address the matter in the summer with multiple signings in the defensive department.

A new right-back, in the form of Trent Alexander-Arnold, is seen as a priority while Real Madrid will also look to rope in one or two central defenders.

William Saliba of Arsenal is highlighted as the ‘dream target’ when it comes to the centre-back position, but Los Blancos have their eyes on another Premier League defender – Dean Huijsen.

Real Madrid to battle Man United for Dean Huijsen

However, according to AS, Real Madrid will have to battle it out with Manchester United if they wish to sign Huijsen from AFC Bournemouth in the summer.

Just 19 years old, Huijsen has become one of the most reliable young defenders in the Premier League in his very first season after joining the Cherries from Juventus last summer.

Man in demand. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

As such, the Spaniard, who had been on Real Madrid’s radars before moving to Juventus early in his youth career, has once again emerged as a potential target for the Merengues.

However, Manchester United are also keen on Huijsen, possibly creating another scenario similar to the one involving Leny Yoro in 2024.

Both Real Madrid and Man United went in for the Frenchman, who ultimately opted to move to the Premier League.

Huijsen has a contract with Bournemouth until 2030 and given his rapid rise this season, he is expected to command a sizeable fee.

So, it will be interesting to see whether Real Madrid are prepared to go the extra mile for him or end up backing out, like they did with Yoro last year.

*Player valuation in title obtained from transfermarkt.com on date of publication.