In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through the football world, Liverpool have reportedly reached a principle agreement to sign Inter Milan star Denzel Dumfries for a bargain £21.8million (€25m) this summer. The move, green-lit by the Anfield hierarchy, fulfills Arne Slot’s long-standing admiration for the Dutch powerhouse, who has been dubbed the manager’s ‘elite’ right-back obsession.
Sources close to the negotiations, including insights from TEAMtalk transfer insider Graeme Bailey and FC Inter News, confirm that Liverpool’s pursuit of Dumfries has finally borne fruit. After a January enquiry fell through due to Inter’s reluctance to sanction a mid-season loan with an option to buy—citing a lack of time to find a replacement—the Reds have now capitalized on a key clause in the 29-year-old’s contract. This release clause, active for non-Italian clubs, allows foreign suitors to snap up the versatile defender for the cut-price fee, making it an irresistible opportunity for a club in desperate need of right-back reinforcements.
Liverpool’s right-back woes have been well-documented since Trent Alexander-Arnold’s high-profile departure last summer. The position has become a revolving door of makeshift solutions and injury setbacks, exacerbating the need for a proven, high-caliber addition. The latest blow came during Tuesday’s clash against Sunderland, where midfielder Wataru Endo—deployed out of position at right-back—suffered a severe ankle injury expected to sideline him for months. Endo now joins natural options Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley on the treatment table, leaving Joe Gomez as the primary (and recently returned) stopgap.
Arne Slot, who has been vocal about bolstering the squad’s defensive depth, sees Dumfries as the ideal fit. The Dutch manager’s “huge fan” status for his compatriot is no secret, with reports highlighting Slot’s personal push for the transfer. “Dumfries is the perfect blend of attacking flair and defensive solidity,” a source told FC Inter News. “He’s tempted by the Premier League challenge, and Liverpool represents a dream move for him.”
Denzel Dumfries brings a wealth of experience and silverware to Anfield. Since joining Inter from PSV Eindhoven in 2021 for around £10.9million (€12.5m), the Netherlands international has become a cornerstone of the Nerazzurri’s success. In 194 appearances, he’s contributed 25 goals and 26 assists—an impressive tally for a full-back—while helping Inter secure six major trophies, including Serie A titles and reaching two Champions League finals.
His near-miss with a Merseyside move in 2021, when Everton vied with Inter for his signature, adds an intriguing layer to this saga. Now, five years later, Dumfries is poised to finally grace the Premier League, where his marauding runs, aerial prowess, and set-piece threat could seamlessly integrate into Slot’s high-octane system. At 29, he’s in his prime, offering both immediate impact and longevity
While Liverpool have the inside track, they’re not alone in the race. Atletico Madrid have also expressed keen interest in Dumfries, potentially setting up a bidding war despite the fixed release clause. However, the Reds’ Premier League allure and Slot’s Dutch connection give them a significant edge. “Liverpool is viewed as a perfect fit,” per the reports, with Dumfries eager to test himself in England’s top flight.
This deal in principle marks a shrewd piece of business for Liverpool, addressing a glaring squad weakness without breaking the bank. With the summer window approaching, expect formal announcements soon as the club looks to finalize terms and integrate Dumfries into pre-season plans.
This isn’t the only iron in the fire for Liverpool. Reports indicate they’re scouting left-back options, with Borussia Dortmund’s Daniel Svensson emerging as a £35million target amid interest from Arsenal and Real Madrid. On the outgoing front, Fabrizio Romano has provided updates on Mohamed Salah’s future, revealing persistent Saudi interest from Al-Ittihad and a wildcard club, alongside MLS monitoring. Salah’s situation could fund further reinforcements, but for now, the Dumfries agreement steals the headlines.
As Liverpool navigate a challenging season marked by injuries and transitions, this move signals intent. Arne Slot’s vision is taking shape, and with Dumfries on board, the Reds could be set for a resurgence. Stay tuned for more updates as this blockbuster transfer edges closer to completion
