2
Manchester United are expected to be active in the summer transfer window, and if they’re seeking a long-term solution in central defence, Dean Huijsen should be at the very top of their list.
The 19-year-old has enjoyed a breakout season with Bournemouth and recently earned his senior debut for the Spanish national team. As reported by David Ornstein, Europe’s top clubs are circling — but with a reported £50million release clause, Huijsen could be a game-changing bargain.
With Ruben Amorim renowned for developing young players and trusting defenders who are comfortable in possession, Huijsen’s profile makes him a dream fit for the Portuguese coach’s Old Trafford revolution.
He’s a modern centre back prototype — tall, athletic, calm under pressure, and exceptional on the ball. In his full debut for Spain, he registered 116 touches, completed 90 passes at a 90 per cent accuracy rate, and provided a sublime assist for Lamine Yamal.
It’s not just one moment of magic that sets Huijsen apart. His ability to glide out from the back and break lines with either foot is rare at any age and almost unheard of at 19.
From a defensive standpoint, the teenager is already Bournemouth’s standout performer. He leads all Premier League centre-backs for aerial duels contested in a single match and ranks near the top for ‘true interceptions’ per 1,000 opponent touches.
He’s quick to read danger, aggressive in one-on-one situations and unafraid to step into wide areas to snuff out counters, a necessity in Andoni Iraola’s high-octane, front-foot system.
That same aggressive style could translate well under Amorim, whose tactical setups at Sporting CP have relied heavily on proactive, technically skilled defenders.
Amorim favours a back three system, demanding his centre-backs defend large spaces and contribute to build-up play with composure and incision. Huijsen fits that bill perfectly.
The teenager’s passing range would also add a new dimension to United’s build-up. Only three Premier League centre-backs have played a higher proportion of progressive passes this season, and only five carry the ball forward more often.
His long-range distribution, often with a trademark lofted pass has already yielded assists at both club and international level, and he shows equal comfort using either foot.
Huijsen is not perfect. His eagerness to step in and win the ball can occasionally leave gaps behind, something Memphis Depay exploited in Spain’s recent Nations League tie. But that front-foot assertiveness, combined with the raw tools he possesses, gives any top-level coach the perfect canvas to work with.
Huijsen’s mentality is another major asset. “He knows what he’s doing, he’s under control,” Iraola said recently. “Sometimes he will make mistakes like all the others, but there is always a reason for the things he does.” That maturity has been clear in his response to hostile treatment from Dutch fans and his unshakable composure in high-stakes fixtures.
Beyond his clear tactical fit, signing Huijsen could also make financial sense for INEOS as they look to reshape Manchester United’s squad with long-term value in mind.
The club have been heavily linked with Everton’s Jarrod Branthwaite — a solid, left-sided defender — but the Merseyside club are reportedly demanding upwards of £70-80million for his services.
That’s a premium fee for a player with a lower technical ceiling and less versatility than Huijsen, who is available for a fixed £50 million release clause.
In pure football terms, Huijsen offers more upside. He’s younger, two-footed, taller, and already outperforming Branthwaite in key Premier League metrics — from ball progression to long passing accuracy.
nd while United face competition from elite clubs across Europe for the Spanish international, it’s telling that none of Europe’s giants are in for Branthwaite. That contrast speaks volumes.
For a club that has overspent on underwhelming centre-backs in recent years, INEOS now have a rare opportunity to back a high-upside, cost-efficient signing who could be both a short-term boost and a cornerstone for a decade to come.
Feature image Michael Steele via Getty Images
Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social
