The Blues are targeting the 20-year-old Spain international, who has a 50 million pound release clause.

The Independent reported that Huijsen is "seriously considering" a move to Chelsea, with the club having "taken a lead in the pursuit" of the defender.

The Blues are prepared to offer a seven-year contract, aligning with their strategy of investing in football's brightest young talents. "Chelsea are one of many major clubs pursuing the centre-back," the report noted, highlighting the intense competition for Huijsen's services.

Huijsen, who joined Bournemouth from Juventus in July 2024 for just 12.8 million pounds (potentially rising to 15.3 million), has emerged as one of the Premier League's standout defenders this season.

His composure on the ball, physical presence, and tactical intelligence have drawn praise, with Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola describing him as "very focused on improving individually and helping the team collectively" ahead of a crucial run of games.

Chelsea's advantage may lie in their strong relationship with Huijsen's agent, Ali Barat, who played a pivotal role in Bournemouth's acquisition of the defender and previously facilitated Caicedo's move to Stamford Bridge over Liverpool.

The Daily Mail suggested that Barat's influence could again prove decisive, noting his involvement in several recent Chelsea deals, including Nicolas Jackson's contract extension and Conor Gallagher's transfer to Atletico Madrid.

Liverpool, who have been heavily linked with Huijsen as a potential long-term successor to Virgil van Dijk, are not out of the race.

However, Liverpool's interest could hinge on the contract situations of Ibrahima Konate, Joe Gomez, and Jarell Quansah, with Konate entering the final 12 months of his deal this summer.

Arsenal and Newcastle also have their eyes on Huijsen, with the Gunners viewing him as a youthful addition to their defensive ranks and Newcastle seeking a right-sided centre-back to bolster their squad for European competition. Real Madrid, while previously interested, are unlikely to pursue a move this summer, according to The Independent.

FIFA's exceptional transfer window from June 1 to June 10, ahead of the Club World Cup, could allow Chelsea to finalize a deal early, giving them a head start in a transfer market expected to be frenetic.

Bournemouth, resigned to losing Huijsen, anticipate over 150 million pounds in sales this summer, with forwards Antoine Semenyo and Milos Kerkez also attracting interest from top clubs.

Huijsen's admiration for defensive icons adds intrigue to his next move. In December 2024, he told talkSPORT, "My idol was Sergio Ramos when I was small. I think he's the best defender ever, at least that I've seen. He's got everything." He has also praised Van Dijk, stating, "The best right now? Van Dijk, 100 percent," which could sway him toward Liverpool if the Reds mount a stronger challenge.

As the summer transfer window approaches, Chelsea's proactive approach and Barat's influence position them as frontrunners, but the battle for Huijsen's signature is far from over. With his release clause making him an attainable target for multiple elite clubs, the young defender's decision will be one to watch.

Report: Chelsea surge ahead in battle for Bournemouth's Dean Huijsen