Xabi Alonso Reportedly Urges Chelsea to Pursue Real Madrid's Dean Huijsen

Xabi Alonso is reportedly pushing Chelsea to acquire Real Madrid defender Dean Huijsen. Sports Boom claims Alonso is ready to urge the Premier League club to pursue the 21-year-old. Huijsen previously worked with Alonso at Real Madrid, where he was described as Alonso's "first new signing." Despite Alonso's departure from the Bernabéu, their relationship is said to have "remained intact."

Chelsea may be encouraged by reported uncertainty surrounding Real Madrid, particularly after Jose Mourinho’s appointment and Florentino Perez’s re-election. Huijsen’s future at the Spanish club could hinge on whether Mourinho considers him a key part of his plans.

The report indicates that Huijsen is "comfortable in possession, a progressive passer of the ball and combative when required." This profile is believed to align with the type of defender Alonso would seek if he were to implement a back-three formation at Stamford Bridge. While Alonso is reportedly keen to add experience and leadership, Huijsen is seen as an exception due to his high potential and specific skill set.

Sports Boom also notes that Huijsen’s "£60m valuation still represents good value," considering his development across clubs including Juventus, Roma, Bournemouth, and Real Madrid. Separately, Real Madrid's Arda Güler has also been linked with Chelsea, with a potential £100 million bid reportedly under discussion. However, Huijsen is viewed as a more structurally important target for Chelsea's defensive needs, offering balance, composure, and intelligence.

There is no guarantee that Real Madrid will agree to sell Huijsen, and a player of his age and profile is expected to attract significant interest. However, if internal political situations in Madrid create an opportunity, Chelsea may see a rare chance to sign the defender before his market value increases further.

(Source: Yahoo Sports Soccer)