The much in demand Spain U21 international has arguably been one of the hits in the English Premier League this season, following his July switch from the Turin giants to AFC Bournemouth.
Amsterdam-born Huijsen has recently been linked with a cluster of elite clubs, with his €60 million (US$61.8m) release clause not a problem for the likes of Chelsea, Manchester United, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain.
The 19-year-old center-back has been outstanding for Bournemouth, bagging two goals in 21 league appearances and playing a pivotal role under head coach Andoni Iraola.
After a rocky start to this campaign, Iraola’s troops have steadily climbed the table and currently lie just three points off the top four places that guarantee a berth in next season’s coveted Champions League.
Huijsen’s consistency in the heart of defence has attracted a long list of admirers in England, Italy and Spain.
When he was sold by Juventus, turning down the overtures of Ligue 1 titans Paris Saint-Germain, the teeanger opted to ply his trade in the Premier League.
His move cost Bournemouth €15.2m (US$15.7m), with up to €3m (US$3.1m) in bonuses, and now seems like a bargain deal. The club rarely makes big transfers, yet under Iraola there are a number of Bournemouth players who are being monitored by European giants.
The Bianconeri included a 10% sell-on clause in their agreement with Bournemouth, so there would be a €6m (US$6.2m) financial bonus in the summer if Huijsen moves on.
PSG signed Willian Pacho after missing out on Huijsen, but are looking to reignite their interest. Especially as Milan Skriniar has been sent out on loan to Turkish team Fenerbahce, and is clearly not part of the Ligue 1 leaders’ future plans.
If Huijsen decides to remain in England then Manchester United seems his most likely destination. Ruben Amorim’s defensive backline needs a revamp, with the Portuguese head coach at Old Trafford keen to bolster what appears to be United’s weakest link.
Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro arrived pre-season, but the club needs to bolster their defense. Lisandro Martinez has been sidelined by a long-term injury. while fellow defenders Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof will be out of contract this summer and therefore free agents.
Huijsen already turned down Real Madrid, instead picking to join Juventus in 2021. He was loaned out to AS Roma last season, where he made 13 appearances, and only turned out for the Bianconeri once before being sold to Bournemouth.
Should Bournemouth manage to secure Champions League soccer next term, then Huijsen may opt to stay and compete in Europe’s top competition for the first time.
Being showcased in this arena would surely increase his profile, and indeed value, with Juventus eventually earning a healthy windfall from his sale.