Dean Huijsen has openly declared that he feels ‘pretty relaxed’ regarding his future amid robust speculation surrounding a potential big-money move in the summer transfer window.
Boasting 33 appearances for Bournemouth since his $20 million switch last summer, Huijsen has swiftly become one of European football’s most in-demand defensive talents, with Chelsea also stepping up its interest in recent weeks.
With rumors swirling about a $66 million release clause as the upcoming summer window draws near, Liverpool is understood to be among the elite outfits poised to battle for his services.
On Saturday evening, the 20-year-old excelled, clinching a man of the match performance, and heading in a crucial equaliser in the Cherries’ 2-1 victory over Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.
Post-match, talking to Sky Sports, he downplayed the chatter regarding his path ahead, maintaining focus on the remaining fixtures.
“I think I’m pretty relaxed, just a chill guy, I don’t really think about it too much,” said the Spanish international.
“I just go to training every morning, we have a great group, great staff, great everything at the club.
“I just enjoy my football and I enjoy myself. At the moment I’m just having fun playing football. It’s going well so I am happy.”
(Image: Robin Jones – AFC Bournemouth/AFC Bournemouth via Getty Images)
Confronted with questions about his youth in face of the demanding top-flight environment, Huijsen confidently answered: “I always say if you’re good enough, you’re old enough.
“I think that’s what we’ve proven this season. I’m not sure but I think we have one of the best defensive record so I am happy to be here.”
Not only has Huijsen played a key part in seven Premier League clean sheets this year, but he has also found the back of the net for the third time this season with his goal against Arsenal.
Moreover, having struck against Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur earlier in the season, all of Huijsen’s scoring contributions during his breakthrough campaign have been against Liverpool’s traditional ‘big six’ adversaries.
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Liverpool could well look to strengthen its backline despite skipper Virgil van Dijk recently signing a new contract, keeping him at Anfield for another two years.
Ibrahima Konate has another year remaining on his current deal, while there are doubts over the long-term futures of Joe Gomez and Jarell Quansah.
And ex-Liverpool captain Jamie Redknapp believes Huijsen would be an ideal addition for his former club. He said: “He is so cool, so composed, so chilled. He makes the game look so effortless.
“That is why he is coveted by pretty much everyone in Europe. He is influenced by the Dutch and Spanish way of defending, and of course has been playing in Italy too. That mixture is pretty much perfect.
“Everything is right for him to be a top player. He is a complete player, he brings the ball into midfield but also defends so well.”
