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.

Who is Dean Huijsen? The son of former Ajax academy graduate Donny Huijsen, the 6ft5 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 away 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 and has given an insight into his burgeoning career.

"I am very happy to be part of this national team, as I grew up in Malaga since I was five years old. I feel Spanish," said Huijsen. "When I was younger I refused to sign for many top clubs in Spain and chose Italy instead.

"It was because I wanted to deepen my defensive skills - I had already acquired skills with regards to ball control, but needed more in terms of winning duels, tackling and the whole tactical side of the game.

"Italy has helped me greatly in this regard - it's helping me become a better player, but there's still a lot I must learn."

What Dean Huijsen has said 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.

"Roma don't have an option, but I've learned that anything can happen in football. Surely, I'll return to Juventus and make myself available," he said. "It's the first big club that believed in me and I can only be grateful to them."

When asked about his decision to sign for Roma, Huijsen explained: "When I was offered to join Roma, I immediately liked the idea. First because they are a great club and then because it's hard to say no when Mourinho calls. I thought they called me because they needed me but I've conquered the rest. Every minute I play is the result of hard work and sacrifice."

On working under De Rossi, Huijsen said: "I think it's a good signal. I quickly adapted to the change especially because we are talking about two exceptional people and coaches. I have great teammates around. I have fun and learn.

"Future in La Liga? I don't know - in football you never know but for now I feel good in Serie A."

What Dean Huijsen's managers have said On Huijsen's debut, Juventus boss Max Allegri said: "Huijsen entered the game serene and calm, he never played complicated passes and never put his teammate in difficulty He reads the game like a great player. He does things like Ciro Ferrara. Dean worked with the tranquility and serenity of a thirty-year-old."

Roma boss Daniele De Rossi on Huijsen's potential: "There are no limits for him, because he has a level of knowledge, reading the action and playing that is difficult to teach to a first team player. It's something he has inside, in his nature. In my opinion, he could be a midfielder and play in front of the defence.

"He is only 18 years old and there are many things he needs to work on in order to be consistent for 90 minutes. He has time ahead of him and as long as we can we will try to help him because he is a good lad, he is a nice player to watch and to train."