Aston Villa targeting £55m Premier League defender for summer transfer

Aston Villa are reportedly interested in signing AFC Bournemouth’s promising young center-back Dean Huijsen this summer. The 19-year-old Spanish defender has impressed in his debut Premier League season and is attracting attention from several top clubs.

Villa had previously inquired about Huijsen before he joined Bournemouth last summer. Now it has emerged that the player has a £55 million release clause in his contract which becomes active at the end of this season.

Manager Unai Emery is looking to strengthen his defensive options, with on-loan Chelsea defender Axel Disasi set to return to his parent club. Huijsen has established himself as a key player in Bournemouth’s surprise push for European qualification this season.

The talented teenager ranks highly among Premier League defenders for key metrics like interceptions, blocks and clearances. He has also shown an eye for goal, scoring at an impressive rate for a center-back.

While £55 million is a significant fee for such a young player, Huijsen’s performances suggest he could be worth the investment for Villa as they look to build on this season’s success. However, they are likely to face competition from other top Premier League sides also monitoring the defender’s situation.

With his release clause becoming active, this summer could present Villa with an opportunity to sign one of the league’s most promising young defensive talents as they aim to establish themselves as regular European contenders.