Liverpool in talks to sign “world-class” star

Liverpool’s summer transfer window will be crucial if they are to build on the success endured by Arne Slot in his first season in charge of the side at Anfield.

The Dutchman looks set to claim the Premier League title at the first attempt, but additions will be needed if he is to replicate such a feat in 2025/26.

Numerous players are expected to depart the Reds during the off-season, needing to provide added depth to the squad, whilst also upgrading players who remain on Merseyside.

Darwin Núñez and Harvey Elliott have both already been touted with a summer move, with any deals likely to hand the manager added funds to make improvements to his side.

It appears as though he’s wasted no time in targeting reinforcements, with one player emerging as a huge target ahead of the opening of the summer transfer window.

According to The Athletic, Liverpool have made contact with Bournemouth ahead of a summer deal to land centre-back Dean Huijsen, but face serious competition for his signature.

Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal and Newcastle United are all in the race to land the 19-year-old who’s massively impressed for the Cherries in 2024/25.

He’s notched 25 Premier League appearances to date, registering two goals and one assist, playing a vital role in their ambitions of securing European football under Andoni Iraola.

The report claims that the Reds’ hierarchy have already held meetings with the defender’s representatives over a move to Merseyside, with the Spaniard having a £50m release clause in his current contract.

Whilst it may seem a hefty sum for such a young talent, it would be a worthwhile investment, allowing Slot to land a player who could star at the heart of the backline for many years to come.

Why Huijsen would be a better signing than Kerkez for Liverpool

Over the last few weeks, Huijsen hasn’t been the only Bournemouth player touted with a move to join Liverpool, with Milos Kerkez strongly linked with a move to Slot’s side.

The Hungarian left-back has been subject to interest over £40m move to join the Reds, but it remains to be seen whether a deal will be completed this summer.

His talent is there for all to see, scoring twice and registering five assists in the Premier League this campaign, being a key part of the Cherries’ success under Iraola this year.

However, a move for Huijsen would undeniably be a better signing than Kerkez, especially considering the other sides also in the race for his services this window.

The Spanish international would be a perfect partner to current centre-back Virgil van Dijk, with any move allowing him to learn off the Dutchman and become the club’s leading defensive star down the line.

AFC Bournemouth's Dean Huijsen during the warm up before the match

He’s already showcased his talent on the South Coast, outperforming Van Dijk in numerous key areas, further highlighting why he would be a better addition than the full-back.

Huijsen, who’s been labelled “world-class” by one analyst, has registered more progressive carries per 90 – showcasing his impressive ability on the ball, subsequently being able to fit into Slot’s possession-based system.

How Huijsen compares to Van Dijk in the PL (2024/25)
Statistics (per 90)	Huijsen	Van Dijk
Games played	25	31
Goals & assists	3	2
Progressive carries	1.5	0.5
Tackles won	1.1	0.5
Blocks made	1.5	0.7
Interceptions made	2.2	1.6
Clearances made	6.9	5.1
Stats via FBref

The youngster has also thrived defensively, winning more tackles per 90, along with more interceptions – outperforming Van Dijk despite his tender age, highlighting how much of an impressive addition he would be.

£50m would be a huge fee for such a young star, but in his short spell in England’s top flight, he’s shown how impressive he’s been, having all of the tools to improve further.

Given the vast amount of interest in his signature, the club’s hierarchy will have to work quickly to avoid missing out on him, undoubtedly making a huge mistake if they don’t pursue his services.