Newcastle United could be dealt a blow in the race to sign highly-rated defender Dean Huijsen, according to latest reports. The Magpies have been credited with interest in the 20-year-old Bournemouth defender who has excelled this season, but face competition from Premier League rivals.

According to reports from the Daily Mail and the Independent, Chelsea are leading the chase to sign the Spaniard ahead of Newcastle.

The report mentions Liverpool also being in the hunt for the central defender after an impressive breakout season on the South Coast which resulted in a maiden international call-up to Luis de la Fuente's squad.

Plus Real Madrid and Arsenal are also mooted with interest but the La Liga giants are expected not to make a move this summer.

It has been said that Huijsen is seriously considering a switch to Stamford Bridge as part of the latest transfer offensive from Chelsea under the guidance of Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital.

There could be some movement going the other way in West London with Chelsea under threat from steering below Profit and Sustainability Rules danger zone, subsequently facing charges for Premier League breaches.

"It’s absolutely an honour when I hear that such a big club is interested in me," Huijsen responded to links with Real Madrid previously.

"I’m only thinking about ending the season well, then when the time comes, we’ll see what happens there."

Andoni Iraola faces an important summer at Bournemouth with interest mounting over his future at the Vitality Stadium. But also a host of his star players such as Antoine Semenyo and Milos Kerkez have become the subject of speculation.

Despite the increasing links, the Spanish tactician has remained untroubled. “My only concern with Dean is he keeps his focus here," he said.

"I see he trains very well. He’s very focused on improving individually, improving us as a team collectively. He knows we have seven very important games ahead of us and I see him in a really good place.

"No, I don’t think the noise around is affecting him and I see him in a good place."