Real Madrid have confirmed the signing of Dean Huijsen, the 20-year-old agreeing personal terms after the Spanish giants activated his £50 million release clause.
The transfer brings an end to Arsenal’s interest in the Bournemouth defender, the Gunners previously appearing to be in pole position to sign Huijsen but ultimately missing out.
It means interest must now turn elsewhere, especially with rumours circulating that Jakob Kiwior could be departing the Emirates.
With that in mind, here are three potential options Arsenal could turn to now that Huijsen is no longer available.
Nathan Collins – Brentford
As reported exclusively by Arsenal Insider, Nathan Collins is a target for Mikel Arteta.
The Brentford defender has enjoyed a strong season at the Gtech Community Stadium, featuring in every single Premier League game under Thomas Frank.
| Nathan Collins | Statistic | Dean Huijsen |
| 36 | Appearances | 30 |
| 2 | Goals | 3 |
| 3 | Assists | 1 |
| 86.3% | Pass accuracy | 84.3% |
| 22 | Tackles won | 26 |
| 187 | Duels won | 114 |
| 118 | Aerial duels won | 66 |
| 33 | Interceptions | 50 |
| 13 | Dribbled past | 10 |
| 7.01 | Average rating | 7.25 |
Comfortable in possession, his consistency has helped Brentford climb to eighth in the Premier League table as they look to secure their best finish since being promoted back to the top flight in 2022.
While still only 24, he also has more experience under his belt than Huijsen, meaning he could prove to be a great addition if a deal can be made.
Cristhian Mosquera – Valencia
Cristhian Mosquera is another player on Arsenal’s radar.
The 20-year-old has made 35 appearances for Valencia in La Liga this season, helping his side climb away from the relegation zone after a difficult first half of the season.
Mosquera is especially admired by Andrea Berta, Spanish outlet Cadena SER reporting that Arsenal’s new sporting director wanted to sign the Spanish under-21 international during his time at Atletico Madrid.
Out of contract in the summer of 2026, there is potential that Arsenal could sign Mosquera for a cut-price deal.
More importantly, with less experience under his belt than Collins, it is likely Mosquera will be happier playing second fiddle to Arsenal’s first-choice defensive partnership of William Saliba and Gabriel.
Victor Valdepenas – Real Madrid Castilla
According to Metro, Arsenal are reportedly interested in Victor Valdepenas, another young Spanish defender.
The 18-year-old has spent the season playing for Real Madrid’s C team and their reserve side, Real Madrid Castilla, making 26 appearances in all competitions.
While primarily a centre-back, he can also play at left-back, wing-back, or in midfield. Indeed, according to Transfermarkt, he has played across these positions this season.
Valdepenas’ lack of senior football at an elite level means he would definitely be a signing for the future.
However, with Real Madrid having now moved for Huijsen, only 20 years old himself, they could be more likely to part ways with their exciting prospect.
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