Manchester City are on the verge of a transfer coup that could reshape their squad and deal a blow to rivals, as they lead the race to sign Inter Milan’s dynamic right-back Denzel Dumfries for a remarkably low £21.5 million (€25 million). The 29-year-old Dutch star, who played a pivotal role in Inter’s run to the 2023 UEFA Champions League final, is reportedly “deeply disappointed” with recent changes at his club, particularly the departure of manager Simone Inzaghi. With a release clause active until July 15, 2025, City are in “pole position” to secure Dumfries, whose 17 goal involvements (four goals and 13 assists) in the 2024-25 season across all competitions highlight his attacking prowess. This move signals Pep Guardiola’s intent to revitalize a squad that finished third in the Premier League last season, as they aim to reclaim domestic and European dominance in 2025-26.
Dumfries, a marauding wing-back known for his relentless energy and flair, was a standout for Inter last season, contributing two goals and three assists en route to the Champions League final, where they fell 1-0 to Manchester City. His versatility to operate as a traditional right-back or wing-back fits seamlessly into Guardiola’s evolving system, which demands defenders who can transition swiftly from defense to attack. “Dumfries, how good was he? Unbelievable. He’s so good,” raved former Manchester United legend Gary Neville in May, envisioning the Dutchman as a perfect fit for the Premier League. Neville’s endorsement, originally aimed at United, underscores the coup City could achieve by outmaneuvering their rivals, who have also shown interest alongside Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Bayern Munich.
City’s pursuit of Dumfries comes amid a broader squad overhaul following a trophyless 2024-25 campaign, their first under Guardiola since 2016-17. The club has already invested heavily, spending £116 million in the summer window on players like Lyon’s Rayan Cherki (£30.7 million plus £5.1 million in add-ons), Wolves’ Rayan Ait-Nouri, AC Milan’s Tijjani Reijnders, and Chelsea’s Marcus Bettinelli as a backup goalkeeper. The potential exit of veteran right-back Kyle Walker, whose contract situation remains uncertain, has made Dumfries a prime target to bolster the right flank. “It’s like a title,” Guardiola said of their third-place finish, which secured Champions League qualification, but he emphasized the need for fresh blood to challenge for silverware. The addition of Dumfries, with his 54 caps for the Netherlands and proven big-game pedigree, could provide the spark City need.
The low £21.5 million fee is a steal for a player of Dumfries’ caliber, especially given his contract situation and Inter’s financial constraints following Inzaghi’s exit. City’s director of football, Hugo Viana, sees Dumfries as “an excellent addition” to the squad, capable of thriving in the Premier League’s intensity. His 17 goal involvements last season—four goals and 13 assists in 44 appearances—demonstrate his offensive threat, while his defensive tenacity and ability to cover the flank make him a natural successor to Walker. Social media buzz among City fans is palpable, with one supporter tweeting, “Dumfries at that price? It’s a no-brainer for Pep’s system!” However, competition remains fierce, with Newcastle’s Champions League aspirations and Tottenham’s need for a right-back adding pressure to finalize the deal before the July 15 deadline.
City’s transfer strategy reflects lessons learned from a season marred by injuries, including Rodri’s season-ending ACL tear and Oscar Bobb’s broken leg, which exposed their reliance on Erling Haaland for goals. The January signing of Omar Marmoush for £60 million addressed attacking concerns, but Dumfries’ arrival could solidify the defense while adding flair. “We pushed until the end,” Guardiola noted after a draw against Brighton, emphasizing the need for consistency. As City prepare for the FIFA Club World Cup, where Dumfries could debut if the transfer is completed in the knockout stage window (June 27 to July 3), this signing could mark a turning point. With a potential starting XI featuring Ederson, Dumfries, Ait-Nouri, and Cherki, City are poised to reclaim their place among Europe’s elite, leaving rivals to rue a missed opportunity.
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