Manchester United are weighing up a move for Netherlands right-back Denzel Dumfries.
For the past two years, possibly more, Denzel Dumfries has been discussed as a possible option for Manchester United at right-back.
According to The Athletic, intermediaries have proposed a potential swap deal between Manchester United and Inter Milan.
The move would see Aaron Wan-Bissaka head to Inter, and Dumfries to Manchester United, although talks are not at an advanced stage.
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Why Inter Milan could let Denzel Dumfries go
Aaron Wan-Bissaka is an asset to any club due to his unique defensive skills, where he is one of the world’s best at facing attackers one-on-one.
Manchester United’s openness to sell the defender is partly led by his expiring contract. Wan-Bissaka’s current deal runs out in 2025.
This situation is shared with Denzel Dumfries. The Netherlands right-back’s contract runs out in June 2025 too.
It creates a sense of parity in terms of valuation. Dumfries is two years older at 28, but has a lot more experience at international level.
Dumfries is also coming off a disappointing season, where he started only 19 of a possible 38 Serie A matches.
Inter manager Simone Inzaghi said earlier this month, via TMW, he felt the Dutchman had a dip in his performance levels.
Inzaghi said: “Dumfries did very well last year until December, then he had a problem and the last few months were not up to his standards, but at the European Championships we saw the usual Dumfries.”
He added, hinting at a right-back signing: “We have a need in that role, we will do something.”
These comments are somewhat of a warning to Manchester United, who may be wary of adding a 28-year-old defender to an otherwise young squad, and one who is coming off a disappointing season.
Dumfries was praised by Rio Ferdinand in 2022
Denzel Dumfries performances at the 2022 World Cup were among the best of his career, where he earned widespread praise in Louis van Gaal’s system.
Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand spoke highly of Dumfries’ displays, and his all-round game.
Ferdinand said: “He’s a player you look at and think that he’s athletic, can beat people one-on-one. It’s not just about being there, it’s the quality.
“He’s not putting balls in willy-nilly, he’s picking people out, those cutbacks have been ever so dangerous.
“He doesn’t mind working at the other end of the pitch, as well. He’s been a breath of fresh air for them and a very important player.”
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