Man United in Pole Position to Sign Inter Milan's Denzel Dumfries

According to recent reports, Man United are leading the race to sign Inter Milan wing-back Denzel Dumfries. Manager Erik ten Hag is looking to bring in a right-back in the upcoming summer transfer window and the Dutch defender has emerged as one of the key targets.

Having broken onto the world stage at PSV Eindhoven, Inter Milan stole the 27-year-old full-back for a measly €14 million in 2021. He continued to live up to expectations by playing a crucial role in Inter’s charge to the 2022/23 Champions League final.

Denzel Dumfries, Manchester United — Image Obtained Via Team Talk

The current right-backs at Ten Hag’s disposal – Diogo Dalot and Aaron Wan-Bissaka have failed to live up to expectations. Moreover, it is being touted that AWB could be sold this summer. Thus, bringing in a right-back could prove to be a very effective acquisition.

According to FC Inter News (via Football Talk), Man United are in pole position to sign Internazionale full-back Denzel Dumfries this summer. The Red Devils have been linked to the Dutchman for the past two seasons, making most fans familiar with his name and abilities.

The 27-year-old has proven himself to be a consistent performer for both club and country and has established a reputation of being one of the best attacking full-backs in Europe at the moment. Moreover, he has played a pivotal role for the Italian side as they are in pole position to win the Serie A title this season.

🚨 Manchester United are still leading the way in the race for Denzel Dumfries. He could be available for €40M this summer, with his Inter contract ending in 2025.

(Source: Tuttosport) pic.twitter.com/RwLSXBffmh

— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) February 26, 2024

However, he has less than 18 months left in his current contract and talks to extend his deal at the club haven’t progressed well. Nevertheless, any deal to sign the Dutchman would cost around €50million (£43m) and the the Red Devils are willing to fork out the amount to bolster their defence, as per the report.

Why Should Man United Sign Denzel Dumfries?

The Manchester United defence has been nothing but leaky this season. They have conceded the most shots on goal after Sheffield United. The backline has suffered from inconsistency all season due to injuries to key players and the lack of quality on the bench.

According to Transfermarkt, the Dutch international has 29 goal involvements in 120 games for Inter. This is already a better attacking return as compared to Manchester United’s current right-back options – Diogo Dalot and Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

How Would Dumfries Fit Into This United Squad?

Having played primarily as a right midfielder/wing-back in Italy, there is no doubt that he would have to adjust his game to fit into Erik ten Hag’s 4-3-3 setup. However, he can significantly benefit the manager by offering an attacking outlet from the right-hand side, especially with no right-winger performing up to the expectations this season.

Wait for it… Wait for it…

Denzel Dumfries does it himself to send the San Siro into a frenzy. 😮 pic.twitter.com/fFoEsDzseU

— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) September 27, 2023

Moreover, being a Dutch international, Dumfries also aligns with Ten Hag’s evidently-favoured recruitment policy of Dutch/Eredivisie players. During transitions into attack, we can expect the 27-year-old to stay higher up the pitch to serve as an attacking outlet.

Pivot players such as Casemiro might be expected to stay back as defensive cover. Allowing Denzel Dumfries to gallop forward and join the attack removes some of the chance creation dependency on Man United captain Bruno Fernandes.

Dumfries’ Future at Inter Milan

Dumfries’ future is uncertain at Inter at the moment. His contract with the Nerazzurri expires by the end of June 2025. The club would thus want to either extend his contract or sell him in the summer for a decent transfer fee. If the player wishes to leave, it is in their best interest to sell him in the summer after a potential increase in his market price after the Euros.

The Dutch international will definitely have an interest in the prospect of playing in the Premier League. It seems like the most sensible destination for the defender’s next challenge having already established himself as one of the best right-backs in Italy.

Under INEOS, Manchester United should have the funds to lure the 27-year-old full-back to Old Trafford. Moreover, with Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s departure seeming likely, it appears to be the best step forward for all parties involved.

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