Chelsea boosted in pursuit of Premier League defender after release clause revelation | OneFootball

Chelsea have identified Bournemouth centre-back Dean Huijsen as a key transfer target for the summer, a report has revealed.

The 19-year-old has shone since his £12.8m move from Juventus last summer, scoring twice in 17 appearances to help Bournemouth mount an unexpected challenge for a spot in next season's Champions League.

Huijsen's form has long caught the eye of a number of Europe's elite sides - Real Madrid have often been linked with a move for the Dutch-born Spaniard - and Fabrizio Romano has confirmed Chelsea are serious suitors.

While Bournemouth would be incredibly reluctant to sell Huijsen, whose contract runs until 2030, Romano states the defender's deal includes a release clause which will become active in the summer.

The value of the clause is not mentioned, but reports in Spain have previously put Huijsen's release clause at around €65m (£54.9m).

Chelsea are not alone in their pursuit of Huijsen. Bayern Munich are said to have enquired, while AS state he is a key target for Madrid this year. Arsenal and Manchester United are both credited with interest.

While Chelsea are currently well-stocked at centre-back, there could be an overhaul approaching as Tosin Adarabioyo, Axel Disasi, Benoit Badiashile and even the newly recalled Trevoh Chalobah have all been linked with moves away from Stamford Bridge.