Dumfries Transfer Talk Heats Up, But Inter Milan Maintains Firm Stance
Despite swirling rumors linking Denzel Dumfries to top European clubs, Inter Milan insists their star right-back isn’t going anywhere. Sporting director Piero Ausilio has addressed the speculation head-on, clarifying the club’s position and shedding light on Dumfries’s current contract situation — one that includes a surprisingly modest release clause.
Release Clause Fuels Speculation
Dumfries, 29, signed a contract extension with Inter Milan in November 2024, committing to the club until 2028. However, it’s the details of that deal that have caught attention across Europe. Reports reveal a release clause of just €25 million (approximately $29.4 million) — a bargain fee by modern football standards for a player of Dumfries’s caliber.
His strong performances last season, where he netted 11 goals and contributed five assists in 47 appearances, have made him a hot commodity. That output, despite Inter falling short in Serie A, the Champions League, and the Supercoppa Italiana, showcased his attacking prowess and reliability at right-back.
Barcelona, Manchester City Eye Move — But Inter Pushes Back
Both Barcelona and Manchester City were reportedly monitoring Dumfries as they look to bolster their fullback options. However, Ausilio was quick to dismiss any formal approach from the Spanish champions.
“We’ve had no contact from Barcelona,” Ausilio told reporters. “That story has no substance. Yes, the release clause exists, but it was introduced at a challenging time. In hindsight, we protected the club’s interests well.”
Barcelona have instead shifted their focus toward signing a winger, with recent efforts aimed at securing Marcus Rashford after missing out on Nico Williams.
As for Manchester City, Ausilio hinted those links were equally overstated. “We renewed Dumfries’s contract when there was a serious chance of losing him for free. Honestly, the clause might alarm some, but we’re calm. He’s happy here,” Ausilio stated.
City’s Fullback Woes Continue
Manchester City’s interest isn’t surprising, given their ongoing issues at right-back. Kyle Walker’s decline and subsequent exit left a gap that Matheus Nunes and Rico Lewis struggled to fill effectively last season. Dumfries, with his blend of pace, physicality, and attacking instinct, could represent a long-term solution for Pep Guardiola’s setup — but Inter doesn’t appear ready to part ways.
Dumfries Committed to Inter — For Now
Though the low release clause makes Dumfries a tempting target, Inter seems confident in their position. The Dutch international appears content in Milan, and unless a club activates the clause — and Dumfries wants the move — he’s likely to remain in Serie A next season.
