Magpies are linked with Juve teen

NEWCASTLE United have been linked with a move for Juventus prospect Dean Huijsen ahead of the summer transfer window.

The 18-year-old centre-back was previously claimed to be a target for the Magpies in December. Making his Juventus debut in October, Huijsen joined Roma on loan in January, where he has made 12 appearances, scoring twice and providing one assist.

A report from Tutto Juve has claimed that Newcastle are one of three English clubs interested in signing the young defender. Eddie Howe’s side are said to be competing with Arsenal and Manchester United for his signature, while Roma do not have an option for a permanent transfer.

The son of former Ajax academy graduate Donny Huijsen, the 6ft 5’ centre-back was born in Spain and started in Malaga’s academy before joining Juventus’ youth setup. The defender proved to be capable in both boxes, scoring 12 goals in 35 games for Juventus’ U17 and U19 sides. He stepped up to Juventus Next Gen in the 22/23 season and made a total of 30 appearances in Serie C across two seasons before becoming involved in the first team this term.

Huijsen made his Juventus debut as a substitute against AC Milan in October. Facing competition for places, Roma offered him a better chance of earning regular football. The teenager was rewarded with his first Spain U21 cap during the current international break.

It has been a remarkable rise for the teenager, who has already worked under Massimiliano Allegri, Jose Mourinho and Daniele De Rossi during his short career. Despite his success at the Stadio Olimpico, Roma do not have an obligation to buy the defender, presenting Newcastle with an opportunity to snap up the prodigy, though a large fee would be expected as his Juventus contract is scheduled to run until 2028.