Context:

Chelsea faces a setback in their transfer plans as Bournemouth's rising star, Dean Huijsen, opts for a move to Real Madrid over Stamford Bridge. Despite Chelsea's interest and a formal bid, the 20-year-old center-back is drawn to Los Blancos, who can easily meet his £50m release clause. Real Madrid's ability to pay the clause in instalments adds financial flexibility, benefiting their incoming head coach Xabi Alonso, who aims for strategic signings before the Club World Cup. Interestingly, Real Madrid had previously missed out on Huijsen in 2021 to Juventus but have maintained relations with his father, aiding their pursuit. Huijsen's potential arrival at Madrid accompanies speculations about Trent Alexander-Arnold's move, as the club seeks to bolster its squad after a rare trophy-less season.

Dive Deeper:

• Chelsea's summer transfer plans encounter a challenge as Dean Huijsen, a promising Bournemouth center-back, decides in favor of a move to Real Madrid over Chelsea and Arsenal, despite Chelsea's significant interest and a formal bid.

• Huijsen's £50m release clause in his Bournemouth contract is financially feasible for Real Madrid, especially with the option to pay in three instalments, enhancing their purchasing power for additional summer signings.

• Newly appointed Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso is keen on signings like Huijsen to strengthen the squad ahead of the Club World Cup, marking a strategic move to recover from an uncharacteristic lack of trophies in the past season.

• Real Madrid had previously pursued Huijsen in 2021 but were outbid by Juventus; however, their continued good relations with Huijsen's father have kept the club in a favorable position to secure the player now.

• The potential acquisition of Huijsen is part of a broader transfer strategy that might include Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold, as Real Madrid aims to revitalize its team and reassert its dominance in European football.