Liverpool have reportedly pulled out of the race to sign Dean Huijsen, with Real Madrid now expected to complete the deal for the 20-year-old Spain international.
David Ornstein reports that Real Madrid have already activated Huijsen’s £50 million release clause and are finalizing personal terms with the Bournemouth defender, aiming to have him ready for the Club World Cup next month. This rapid progress by Madrid made it clear why Liverpool stepped back.
Fabrizio Romano says the Reds decided to walk away after it became clear the player only wanted a move to Madrid.
“Liverpool already left the conversation more than 24 hours ago,” Romano revealed on his YouTube channel, “because they understood that the player was giving total priority to Real Madrid.”
He added: “Now it’s on Real Madrid to close everything, with a ‘here we go’ expected very soon because there is an agreement between clubs.”
With Huijsen set for Spain, Liverpool have now turned their attention to Ajax defender Jorrel Hato, who is seen as an alternative target.
“For sure he is on the list at Chelsea and at Liverpool,” Romano said. “Both clubs appreciate the player and have been monitoring him. Now we have to see what they decide to do in terms of conversations and negotiations also, because it’s not an easy one with Ajax.”
Hato, 18, has impressed in the Eredivisie and is considered one of the brightest young defenders in the Netherlands.
