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Samuel - July 6, 2025
Denzel Dumfries has quietly emerged as one of Europe’s top-performing right-backs, known for his relentless energy, defensive solidity, and attacking contributions.
Since joining Inter Milan in 2021, the Dutch international has thrived in Serie A and the Champions League, developing into a key figure in both domestic and European competitions.
Now, with the 2025/26 season approaching, Dumfries finds himself at a career crossroads. A reported €25 million release clause, surprisingly low given his recent performances, has ignited widespread interest from top European clubs. Could this clause spark a transfer tug-of-war, or will Inter convince him to stay?
Despite Inter Milan ending last season without silverware, Denzel Dumfries delivered one of the strongest seasons of his career.
Featuring regularly as both a right-back and right wing-back, he was a tactical mainstay under Simone Inzaghi, especially during the club’s impressive run to the Champions League final.
The 28-year-old scored seven goals and provided two assists in Serie A, while contributing two goals and three assists in the Champions League. His standout moment came in the semi-final against Barcelona, where he played a decisive role across both legs with a brace and two assists.
Dumfries’ strength lies in his ability to seamlessly shift between defense and attack. His explosive pace, positional awareness, and consistent delivery in the final third mark him as one of the most well-rounded right-backs in European football. For clubs seeking a high-impact full-back, he’s the complete package.
According to renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano, Dumfries’ €25 million release clause is valid until mid-July and must be activated through a single upfront payment. In a transfer market where elite full-backs often command €50 million or more, this clause is seen as a major under-valuation.
For clubs seeking a proven, experienced right-back entering his prime, this clause offers a low-risk, high-reward opportunity. However, if the clause isn’t triggered by the deadline, Inter Milan will regain leverage in negotiations, either to seek a higher fee or secure a contract extension.
For Dumfries and his suitors, timing is crucial. This release clause could define his next chapter.
Two of Europe’s biggest clubs, FC Barcelona and Manchester United, are reportedly monitoring Dumfries closely as they seek right-back reinforcements.
At Barcelona, Hansi Flick is rebuilding the defense and sees Dumfries as a natural fit. With Jules Kounde playing out of position at right-back, the Dutchman’s attacking runs, endurance, and tactical discipline would restore balance. His versatility in a back four or as a wing-back aligns well with Flick’s high-tempo, possession-heavy system.
Over in England, Manchester United under Ruben Amorim are looking to revamp their squad, especially in wide areas.
Dumfries would slot perfectly into Amorim’s 3-4-3 or 3-5-2 setup, offering more attacking consistency than current options like Diogo Dalot or Noussair Mazraoui. His experience on the European stage adds further appeal.
For both clubs, Dumfries represents a high-upside signing with immediate impact potential.
Newly appointed Inter Milan manager Cristian Chivu has made it clear that Dumfries is a cornerstone of his plans. In Chivu’s preferred 3-5-2 formation, Dumfries is expected to play a pivotal role as a wing-back, stretching opposition defenses, linking up in the final third, and supporting transitions.
The Dutchman was also a regular feature during Inter’s Club World Cup campaign, underscoring the club’s intention to keep him at the heart of their system.
However, financial strategy could dictate otherwise. Having signed Dumfries from PSV Eindhoven for €12.5 million in 2021, Inter would make a significant profit even at the current release clause. But from a sporting perspective, losing a player of his calibre and consistency ahead of a crucial season would be a major setback.
Denzel Dumfries is entering the prime of his career, and with a €25 million buyout clause, he’s poised to be one of the hottest transfer targets of summer 2025. Whether he remains with Inter Milan under Cristian Chivu or embarks on a new challenge with a European giant, his decision could shape the tactical direction of multiple top clubs.
As the mid-July release clause deadline nears, Dumfries’ future hangs in the balance. For clubs seeking a world-class right-back at a cut-rate price, the time to act is now.
