Arsenal have reportedly secured a verbal agreement to sign a £22 million centre-back, with Dean Huijsen on his way to Madrid. According to reports, the Gunners have reached a verbal agreement with the 20-year-old Ecuadorian, the centre-back has agreed a five years deal with the Gunners
Arsenal have reportedly sealed a verbal agreement to sign a promising £22 million-rated centre-back, as Juventus defender Dean Huijsen prepares for his move to Real Madrid.
According to multiple sources close to the situation, the Gunners have reached an agreement with a highly-rated 20-year-old Ecuadorian defender — whose name is expected to be officially revealed once final paperwork is completed — with personal terms agreed on a five-year contract.
The player, described as one of the most exciting young defensive prospects in South America, is expected to travel to London in the coming days to undergo medical tests before completing his move to the Emirates.
Reports claim the transfer fee is set at £22 million, with potential add-ons included based on appearances and future European qualification bonuses.
This move comes as Dean Huijsen, another sought-after young centre-back, finalizes his anticipated switch to Real Madrid from Juventus — leaving a gap in the European defensive market that Arsenal have swiftly acted to fill.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is believed to be a strong admirer of the Ecuadorian’s versatility, composure on the ball, and physicality, seeing him as a player who can slot into the Gunners’ evolving backline alongside the likes of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães.
A club source hinted:
“He’s exactly the profile we’ve been monitoring — aggressive, intelligent, and confident in building from the back. The agreement is there, and now it’s just about getting everything signed off.”
This deal aligns with Arsenal’s long-term strategy of investing in emerging talents with high ceilings, as Arteta looks to build a squad capable of challenging both domestically and in Europe for years to come.
An official announcement is expected before the end of next week, barring any last-minute complications.
As for Real Madrid, they continue reinforcing their future with Huijsen’s arrival — one of Europe’s most sought-after young defenders — adding further depth to a backline already boasting talents like Antonio Rüdiger, Éder Militão, and David Alaba.