Chelsea ‘leading the race’ after presenting project to PL star, Liverpool & Arsenal too ‘slow’ on transfer | OneFootball

Chelsea are reportedly ‘leading the race’ for Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen after officially presenting him with their project.

That’s according to a report from Simon Phillips, who says sources describe Liverpool and Arsenal as being ‘slow’ on this potential transfer, despite also being interested.

Huijsen has shone for Bournemouth and looks like he could be ready to make the step up to the next level, so the links with so many top clubs are far from surprising.

Phillips suggests that Chelsea now feel confident they’re in a strong position after a positive response from Huijsen’s end after some initial talks.

Still, this is far from a done deal yet, with the journalist noting that Liverpool and Arsenal still can’t be ruled out.

Dean Huijsen warming up for Bournemouth before the Arsenal game (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

Dean Huijsen transfer saga hots up, with Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal his main suitors

It seems these three clubs are the main teams chasing Huijsen at the moment, though we can probably expect to hear more about the Spain international in the weeks and months ahead.

According to Phillips, Chelsea have moved fastest so far and look to be in a strong position, but things could still change.

The reporter insists that Arsenal are still trying, with Mikel Arteta’s presence and the prospect of higher wages possibly set to be key.

It’s also claimed that Huijsen is unsure about both Liverpool and Arsenal in terms of playing opportunities there compared with Chelsea.

Chelsea need to strengthen in defence, but is another youngster the answer?

Huijsen is clearly an elite prospect, but is another young player like this really what Chelsea need?

It certainly looks like the 20-year-old could be an upgrade on inconsistent performers like Levi Colwill, Benoit Badiashile, Tosin Adarabioyo and Trevoh Chalobah.

However, it might also be worth bringing in someone with more experience to help balance out this otherwise youthful squad.