Newcastle United aren't taking a back seat in pursuit of £50m Dean Huijsen - Fabrizio Romano

Fabrizio Romano confirmed yesterday that the £50 million release clause for Bournemouth's 19-year-old defender Dean Huijsen will become active this summer.

Newcastle United have a long-standing interest in Dean Huijsen and were tipped to be the ones to bring him to the Premier League from Juventus in the summer before the Spain U21 international signed for Bournemouth.

Huijsen had been impressing for Roma in Serie A while on loan from Juventus and several clubs held a keen interest in the youngster, including Newcastle, who instead focused way too much time and energy on the pursuit of Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace.

With Huijsen available in the summer, Newcastle could look to rectify that mistake, and according to Fabrizio Romano, they aren't going to to be passive participants in the race for his signature.

Fabrizio Romano says Newcastle are constantly calling for updates on Dean Huijsen

We said yesterday that we'd be surprised if anyone goes straight in with the £50 million required to activate Huijsen's clause. It's more likely a bidding war will break out with clubs trying to seal a bargain, and if that's the case, it seems Newcastle are getting in there early with Romano saying on YouTube that the Magpies are 'constantly calling' for updates.

“Important to say that many clubs are starting to call. I told you in January that Chelsea are monitoring the player closely, he’s for sure on the list. Bayern called about the player to be informed on the clause conditions.

“So, Bayern are also following the situation of the player, but now the focus is on extending the contract of Dayot Upamecano, the conversations are advancing very well, so the expectation is for Upamecano to sign a new deal. Also Newcastle are informed, calling constantly about the situation of Huijsen. So for sure there will be many clubs in the race for this player.”

Champions League qualification could be massive in the hunt for Dean Huijsen

Newcastle will have their work cut out for them, it seems, with some huge clubs keeping tabs on Huijsen, so it makes sense that we are keeping ourselves in the frame with constant calls.

Qualifying for the Champions League this season is looking more and more important in terms of luring players we want to the club as Huijsen is going to have options on the table to play for Champions League regulars.

Let's be honest, Bournemouth are in the race for Champions League football, too, so he might even stay put yet.