Dean Huijsen has accepted it, he'll be a substitute in 2026, Madrid secures the best possible signing

Dean Huijsen arrived at Real Madrid this summer with the promise of becoming the leader of the white defense for the next ten or fifteen years. His technical qualities, defensive reading, and imposing physique made it seem he wouldn't have any trouble adapting to the demands of Bernabéu. However, it's already November and his performance is raising many doubts due to an inconsistency that's starting to cause concern.

The young defender is capable of delivering remarkable performances in some matches and, at the same time, having very noticeable lapses in others. Those concentration gaps have already cost Real Madrid points, and that's something Xabi Alonso can't afford. For this reason, Dean Huijsen's starting spot is no longer guaranteed: right now, Asencio, based on performance, deserves to partner Militao at the heart of the white defense.

Beyond Dean Huijsen's fluctuating level, Real Madrid is already planning the future of the defensive line looking ahead to 2026. Rüdiger and Alaba, barring an unexpected turn, will leave the club on June 30, the date their respective contracts end. The board understands that it's time to look for an elite center-back to complete a solid rotation alongside Dean Huijsen, Militao, and Asencio.

Dean Huijsen has accepted it, substitute in 2026, Madrid secure the best possible signing

In this scenario, the name that's gaining the most traction in Bernabéu's offices is Dayot Upamecano. Bayern Munich's center-back finishes his contract next summer, which would allow Real Madrid to secure his signing at zero cost. His physical power, recovery speed, and ability to anticipate make him one of the most dominant defenders in the world.

Moreover, Dayot Upamecano has made several decisions that are bringing him closer and closer to Bernabéu. He has rejected an offer from Liverpool and still hasn't renewed with Bayern, a clear sign that he's seriously considering a change of scenery. Real Madrid believes it's the perfect opportunity to strengthen the defense.

Dayot Upamecano sends Dean Huijsen to the bench

If Dayot Upamecano's arrival materializes, the scenario for Dean Huijsen would change radically. The club trusts his potential and considers him a defender for the future, but they also understand that he needs to develop without the pressure of being a starter no matter what. With Upamecano and Militao as the main pair, Huijsen would take on a secondary role that would allow him to grow at a more suitable pace.

According to several sources, Dean Huijsen has already accepted that in 2026 he'll be a substitute if the deal goes through. He would prefer to compete from a more contained role rather than be singled out week after week for his mistakes. Real Madrid, meanwhile, believes that strengthening the defense with Dayot Upamecano means securing the best possible signing to keep defensive solidity over the next decade.

If nothing goes wrong, Real Madrid will have a top-level defense in 2026. Dean Huijsen, even if he stops being a starter, will remain a key piece for the future of the project. Dayot Upamecano's arrival could change everything at Bernabéu.