Dean Huijsen

Who is Dean Huijsen?

Dean Donny Huijsen Wijsmuller, born on April 14, 2005, in Amsterdam, Netherlands, is a professional footballer who plays as a central defender for Premier League club AFC Bournemouth. Although born in the Netherlands, Huijsen moved to Spain at the age of five and later became a Spanish citizen in 2024. He has represented Spain at the under-21 level in international competitions.

Early Life and Education

Dean Donny Huijsen Wijsmuller was born on April 14, 2005, in Amsterdam, Netherlands. At the age of five, his family relocated to Marbella, Andalusia, Spain, where he began his early education and developed a passion for football. Growing up in Spain, Huijsen became fluent in Spanish, Dutch, Italian, and English, reflecting his multicultural upbringing.

Family Background

Dean is the son of Mascha Wijsmuller and Donny Huijsen. His father, Donny, had a professional football career, playing for Jong Ajax and competing in both the Eredivisie and the Eerste Divisie.

This footballing lineage has significantly influenced Dean’s career trajectory, providing him with early exposure to the sport and valuable insights into professional football.

Personal Life

Outside of football, Huijsen is known for his multilingual abilities, speaking Dutch, Spanish, Italian, and English. He maintains a close relationship with his family, particularly with his father, Donny, who has been a significant influence on his career. Huijsen’s upbringing in Spain has instilled in him a strong cultural connection to the country, which he considers his home.

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Career

Youth Development

Dean’s football journey began at Costa Unida CF in Marbella, where he honed his skills from a young age. In 2015, he joined Málaga’s youth academy, a pivotal move that marked the start of his serious football training.

During his time at Málaga, Huijsen developed a reputation for his defensive prowess and goal-scoring ability, attributes that would define his playing style in the years to come.

Juventus

In 2021, at the age of 16, Huijsen signed with Italian club Juventus, a testament to his burgeoning talent. He initially played for the under-17 team, making a significant impact by scoring seven goals in his first season. The following year, he advanced to the under-19 level, where he continued to impress by netting six goals in 14 matches across all competitions. His performances earned him a promotion to Juventus Next Gen, the club’s reserve team, in January 2023. Huijsen made his professional debut for Juventus Next Gen on January 8, 2023, in a Serie C match against Pordenone. He showcased his potential by scoring a header, although the goal was disallowed for offside.

Loan to AS Roma

Seeking more first-team experience, Huijsen was loaned to Serie A club AS Roma in January 2024. He made an immediate impact, debuting in a league match against Atalanta. On February 5, 2024, he scored his first Serie A goal in a 4–0 victory over Cagliari. Later that month, on February 18, he netted a stunning goal against Frosinone, carrying the ball from defense and scoring from outside the area. His performances during this loan spell highlighted his growth and adaptability in top-tier football.

AFC Bournemouth

In July 2024, Huijsen made a significant move to Premier League club AFC Bournemouth, signing a six-year contract for an initial fee of €15.2 million, potentially rising to €18.2 million with add-ons. He quickly established himself as a key player, forming a formidable partnership with Illia Zabarnyi in central defense. By December 2024, Huijsen had scored his first goal for Bournemouth, a header in a 1–0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur. His performances have attracted attention from top European clubs, including Chelsea, Bayern Munich, and Real Madrid, with reports indicating that Huijsen has a release clause in his contract valid at the end of the season.

International Career

Initially representing the Netherlands at various youth levels, Huijsen switched his international allegiance to Spain in early 2024. He was called up to the Spain national under-21 team in March 2024, marking the beginning of his international career with Spain. Huijsen expressed his connection to Spain, stating, “I play with Spain because this is my home.”

Latest News

As of January 26, 2025, Dean Huijsen, the 19-year-old central defender for AFC Bournemouth, has emerged as a top transfer target for Chelsea FC. His impressive performances this season, including a solid partnership with Illia Zabarnyi in Bournemouth’s defense, have caught the attention of major clubs. Huijsen has been instrumental in Bournemouth’s defensive record, with the team conceding only nine goals over the last 11 Premier League matches. His consistent play and contributions, including goals against Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United, have further highlighted his potential. Chelsea, along with Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, are reportedly interested in Huijsen, who has a release clause in his contract valid at the end of the season. Huijsen previously spent time on loan at AS Roma, where he benefited from the mentorship of José Mourinho. Internationally, he switched allegiance from representing various age groups for the Netherlands to playing for Spain’s Under-21s, and a senior call-up is anticipated if his form continues.

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Physical Appearance

Standing at 1.95 meters (6 feet 5 inches), Dean Huijsen possesses a commanding presence on the field. His height and athletic build make him a formidable central defender, allowing him to excel in aerial duels and physical challenges. His stature is complemented by his agility and technical skills, which are essential for a modern centre-back.

Net Worth as of 2025

As of 2025, Dean Huijsen’s net worth is estimated to be around $1 million. This valuation considers his earnings from his professional football contracts, endorsements, and other related activities. His recent transfer to AFC Bournemouth, with a potential total value of €18 million, is expected to significantly increase his financial standing in the coming years.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Dean Huijsen

1. Who is Dean Huijsen?

Dean Huijsen is a professional footballer who plays as a central defender for Premier League club AFC Bournemouth and the Spain national under-21 team. Born on April 14, 2005, in Amsterdam, Netherlands, he moved to Spain at the age of five and later obtained Spanish citizenship. Huijsen began his football career in Spain before moving to Italy to join Juventus in 2021. In July 2024, he transferred to AFC Bournemouth.

2. What is Dean Huijsen’s current club?

As of January 2025, Dean Huijsen plays for AFC Bournemouth in the Premier League. He joined the club in July 2024, signing a six-year contract for an initial fee of €15.2 million, potentially rising to €18.2 million with add-ons.

3. Has Dean Huijsen played for the Spain national team?

Yes, Dean Huijsen has represented Spain at the under-21 level. He obtained Spanish citizenship in early 2024 and debuted for the Spain national under-21 team in March 2024. Huijsen expressed his connection to Spain, stating, “I play with Spain because this is my home.”

4. What is Dean Huijsen’s playing style?

Dean Huijsen is known for his defensive capabilities, technical skills, and goal-scoring ability. Standing at 1.95 meters (6 feet 5 inches), he possesses a commanding presence on the field, excelling in aerial duels and physical challenges. His agility and technical proficiency make him a formidable central defender.

5. What is Dean Huijsen’s net worth as of 2025?

As of 2025, Dean Huijsen’s net worth is estimated to be around $1 million. This valuation considers his earnings from his professional football contracts, endorsements, and other related activities. His recent transfer to AFC Bournemouth, with a potential total value of €18 million, is expected to significantly increase his financial standing in the coming years.

6. What is the latest news about Dean Huijsen?

As of January 26, 2025, Dean Huijsen has been identified as a top transfer target for Chelsea FC. The 19-year-old defender has been instrumental in AFC Bournemouth’s defense, forming a formidable partnership with Illia Zabarnyi. His consistent performances have attracted the attention of major clubs such as Chelsea, Bayern Munich, and Real Madrid. Huijsen’s contract with Bournemouth includes a release clause that becomes active at the end of the current season, making him a highly sought-after prospect in the transfer market.

7. What is Dean Huijsen’s height?

Dean Huijsen stands at 1.95 meters (6 feet 5 inches). His height and athletic build make him a formidable central defender, allowing him to excel in aerial duels and physical challenges. His stature is complemented by his agility and technical skills, which are essential for a modern centre-back.

8. What is Dean Huijsen’s family background?

Dean is the son of Mascha Wijsmuller and Donny Huijsen. His father, Donny, had a professional football career, playing for Jong Ajax and competing in both the Eredivisie and the Eerste Divisie. Growing up in a football-oriented family, Dean was exposed to the sport’s intricacies early on, with his father’s experience providing valuable guidance and inspiration. This familial connection to football has been instrumental in shaping Dean’s approach to the game and his professional aspirations.

9. What clubs has Dean Huijsen played for?

Dean Huijsen began his football career at Costa Unida CF in Marbella, Spain. He then joined Málaga’s youth academy in 2015. In 2021, he transferred to Juventus, where he played for the under-17 and under-19 teams. In January 2023, he was promoted to Juventus Next Gen, the reserve team. In January 2024, he was loaned to AS Roma. In July 2024, he transferred to AFC Bournemouth.

10. What is Dean Huijsen’s playing position?

Dean Huijsen plays as a central defender. His defensive capabilities, technical skills, and goal-scoring ability make him a versatile and valuable player in this position.