Real Madrid has strongly committed to a squad full of stars, but there are areas with evident shortcomings. The goalkeeping and attack are well covered, but the defense has experienced significant ups and downs. Injuries have forced constant changes in the backline.
Carlo Ancelotti has had to improvise many times to maintain defensive solidity. In this situation, the sports management considers the arrival of a new center-back necessary. The idea is to strengthen that line with a young profile with potential.
Antonio Rüdiger Could Stop Being a Starter
Antonio Rüdiger has become an essential pillar in the Italian coach's plans. His experience and solidity have given him authority on the field. However, the possible arrival of a new center-back could alter his role.
Real Madrid has followed several defenders in recent months, evaluating different profiles. The goal is to incorporate a defender who can compete at the highest level from the start. Among all the names, one stands out above the rest.
Huijsen Enters the Scene
Although not well known to the general public, Dean Huijsen has completed an outstanding season at Bournemouth. His maturity, anticipation, and ability to play out from the back have attracted the interest of several major European clubs. Additionally, he has been drafted by the Spanish National Team, which has increased his value.
Florentino Pérez has followed him closely but considers that paying 58 million for his signing is excessive. Although he sees enormous potential in him, he is not willing to commit to that amount without absolute guarantees. Therefore, he has cooled his interest in recent weeks.
Chelsea Accelerates and Takes the Lead
Meanwhile, Chelsea has decided to take a step forward and pay the center-back's release clause. In London, they have no doubts about his potential and consider that he can be the cornerstone of their future defense. With this decision, they get ahead of Real Madrid in the race for his signing.
This move has been well received by Antonio Rüdiger, who sees a direct threat to his starting position move away. If Huijsen had arrived at Santiago Bernabéu, the German would have had to fight to maintain his spot. Now, he can continue being the reference without immediate competition.
Antonio Rüdiger Celebrates the News
The German center-back is aware that maintaining his position won't be easy if new talents arrive. Therefore, he is pleased that Huijsen is taking another path. Competition is always healthy, but it also requires constant effort not to lose prominence.
With Chelsea acting decisively, Florentino Pérez will have to decide whether to counterattack or withdraw definitively. Real Madrid still has time to react, but doubts remain. The summer will be long, and anything can happen.