Dean Huijsen explains why he snubbed Chelsea and Arsenal interest to join Real Madrid

Real Madrid unveiled Dean Huijsen at his official signing ceremony today

Dean Huijsen says he ‘didn’t have eyes for any other teams’ once Real Madrid made their interest known this summer.

Madrid triggered Huijsen’s £50million release clause at Bournemouth last month and the 20-year-old defender was unveiled to the media at his official signing ceremony today.

It comes on the back of Huijsen’s outstanding debut season with the Cherries in the Premier League, in which he made 36 appearances in all competitions and further cemented his reputation as one of the finest young centre-backs in Europe.

The likes of Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United and Newcastle and were all credited with a strong interest in Huijsen before the Spain international agreed personal terms with Los Blancos.

The former Juventus centre-half has put pen to paper on a five-year contract at the Bernabeu and will take over the No.24 shirt, most recently worn by Arda Guler.

‘Thanks to the club and the president,’ Huijsen said at his official signing ceremony, where he was accompanied by his parents.

‘I wanted to be here from day one. Ever since Real Madrid called, I didn’t have eyes for any other teams.

The defender shone in the Premier League last season (Picture: Getty) Alonso has already filled Huijsen in on what he expects from him at Madrid (Picture: Getty)

‘Thanks to my family for all the sacrifices they’ve made for me.

‘I’m joining the best club in the world and I’m here to give it my all. I’m going to work as hard as I can, remaining humble, to hopefully win many trophies together.

‘Madrid is the club of my life, and I hope to be here for many years to come. Hala Madrid!’

Huijsen is raring to get started under Xabi Alonso and hopes they will enjoy some ‘beautiful years’ together in the Spanish capital.

‘I spoke to Xabi Alonso. He told me what he’s expecting from me.

‘I think I fit very well in the type of football he wants these will be beautiful years.’

More to follow.