Real Madrid are actively exploring defensive reinforcements ahead of the new season, with centre-backs Dean Huijsen, William Saliba and Ibrahima Konaté on the club’s shortlist, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
Romano reported on Tuesday via X that Huijsen, who has a £50 million release clause, is particularly keen on a move to the Spanish capital and is currently waiting for the club to take formal steps.
Despite the interest from Real Madrid, Premier League sides Chelsea and Liverpool are also pushing hard to land the 19-year-old, with all three clubs prepared to trigger his release clause and are in talks with the player’s representatives.
“Real Madrid know the player dreams of the move, as internal talks are taking place with Xabi Alonso on new CB,” Romano stated.
Romano adds that while Saliba remains a “dream target” for both the present and future, he is currently viewed as too expensive by the Madrid hierarchy.
Konaté is also under consideration, but no advanced negotiations have been confirmed.
The race for Huijsen appears to be heating up, with Chelsea, Liverpool, and Arsenal all showing strong interest and aiming to close a deal this month.
“Race open,” Romano added, suggesting a competitive scramble for the young centre-back’s signature in the coming weeks.
