Why Liverpool’s Interest in Dean Huijsen Could Be a Strategic Masterstroke

When David Ornstein reveals something, people tend to listen. The latest from The Athletic suggests Liverpool are among several Premier League giants tracking AFC Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen, a name rapidly rising in the ranks of Europe’s most promising young centre-backs.

“Yes, I now understand that Liverpool are among the clubs with a firm interest in Dean Huijsen,” Ornstein writes, adding that Chelsea and Arsenal are similarly engaged. Newcastle and Tottenham are also reportedly in the mix. Real Madrid—once considered Huijsen’s dream destination—are not believed to be actively pursuing the player right now, shifting the spotlight firmly to England.

What makes this especially intriguing is the relative silence surrounding Ibrahima Konaté’s contract situation. As Ornstein notes: “Maybe their consideration is influenced by the lack of developments so far on Ibrahima Konaté’s contract situation.” With uncertainty mounting around the Frenchman’s long-term future at Anfield, Huijsen may represent more than just a shrewd addition—he might be a crucial one.

Tactical Fit and Long-Term Potential

Huijsen, currently impressing with Bournemouth, fits the bill of a modern centre-back: tall, composed, elegant on the ball, and progressive in his passing. He’s already operating at a high level in the Premier League, and at just 19, his ceiling remains incredibly high.

From Liverpool’s perspective, this isn’t simply about adding depth. It’s about future-proofing the defence. “You imagine Huijsen would have a good chance of starting alongside Virgil van Dijk if he was signed,” writes Ornstein. That’s not a throwaway line. With Van Dijk ageing and Konaté’s situation unresolved, this is the kind of proactive squad building that top clubs get right—and those who wait often regret.

The £50 million release clause adds another layer of logic. “The £50m release clause makes it a clean and potentially quick deal to do, which we’ve seen Liverpool capitalise on in the past.” Think of Luis Díaz and Cody Gakpo—when the Reds move decisively, they often get their man before the market catches up.

Competition Heats Up Across Premier League

Huijsen’s potential availability has ignited a flurry of interest across the top half of the Premier League. Chelsea are positioning themselves with the possibility ...