Napoli have held talks with AFC Bournemouth over a move for Dean Huijsen.
That’s at least what journalist Ciro Venerato told TG Sport, with Area Napoli relaying his comments.
Bournemouth took the centre-back from Juventus last summer and he’s excelled this season.
The 19-year-old wasn’t given opportunities at the Serie A side and was sent out on loan to AS Roma in the second half of last season. His performances convinced the English club to bet on him and the move has paid off.
Giovanni Manna spent five years at the Turin club before taking the sporting director role at Napoli. During his time as Juve U23 sporting director, he signed Huijsen from Málaga CF in 2021.
Venerato claims Napoli made an approach with Bournemouth to bring the defender to the club. He adds Antonio Conte’s side had to walk away because of the English club’s high demand.
“There was contact, indeed. Not even informal. Napoli and Bournemouth have spoken,” he said.
“The sporting director Manna’s favourite Dan Huijsen plays there. He was the one who discovered him at Málaga and brought him to Juve in 2021.
“But the English club’s request was too high for Napoli. Bournemouth asked for £60m. A figure considered excessive. Real Madrid are reportedly gravitating towards the Dutch central defender.”
It’s to be noted the Spanish media have explained his clause is set at £41.8m [€50m]. Bournemouth may have asked for a higher price to spread the payment instead of paying the clause in one shot.
Real Madrid have been credited with interest in Huijsen, who has publicly talked about his desire to play in La Liga.
