Arsenal dealt transfer blow as summer target nears move to European rival

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Arsenal have suffered a transfer blow, with reports that a summer transfer target has agreed terms to join another European giant despite interest from the Gunners.

With just two Premier League games remaining against Newcastle United and Southampton Arsenal’s focus is already shifting to the transfer window, which opens in just over two weeks. The Gunners still need to secure their Champions League qualification but have little else left to play for this season besides pride and momentum.

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Mikel Arteta has publicly admitted that his squad was left short at times during the campaign and has hinted at a significant summer rebuild. A new striker remains a top priority, and the club is expected to pursue up to four new signings. At the same time, several outgoings are anticipated, with loan players Neto and Raheem Sterling returning to their parent clubs, and the futures of Thomas Partey, Jorginho, Kieran Tierney, Oleksandr Zinchenko, and Jakub Kiwior uncertain.

🗞️ Per @FabrizioRomano, Dean Hujisen’s team have landed in Madrid today to finalise his transfer from Bournemouth to Real 🛬⚪️ pic.twitter.com/2HzQFnbOFG

— LiveScore (@livescore) May 15, 2025

However, Arsenal appear to have missed out on one of their defensive targets, Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen, who is reportedly on the verge of joining Spanish giants Real Madrid. The 20-year-old Spain international has impressed during his time at Bournemouth after signing from Juventus in a £12 million deal last summer. His performances have attracted attention from a host of top European clubs, including Arsenal.

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Despite the interest from north London, Spanish outlet Marca claims that Huijsen and his representatives have made it clear to Real Madrid that the Bernabéu is their preferred destination. Crucially, Real have discovered that the £50 million release clause in his contract can be paid in three instalments, making a summer transfer financially feasible without disrupting their broader plans.

Should the move go through, it would be a significant blow to Arsenal’s hopes of bolstering their defence with a highly rated young talent as they prepare to challenge for silverware once again next season.

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