Why Man Utd and Chelsea are back in for summer transfer target

Suraj Radia

14 Oct 2022 19:32 BST
3 min read

Denzel Dumfries scores for Netherlands v Austria at Euro 2020 — © ProShots

Manchester United and Chelsea are considering reigniting their interest in one of their primary targets from last summer after being alerted to a development in the player’s situation.

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Both clubs had identified Denzel Dumfries as a potential target at right-back, however Inter Milan were initially unwilling to part with the player whose contract expires next summer.

However, according to reports in Italy, Inter are warming to the idea of his departure, as they are aware the ‘shadow’ of the Premier League sides is continuing to ‘float over’ the Dutchman.

Dumfries is believed to favour a move to United and recently admitted he was ‘flattered’ by the links, however he is more likely to move on a free transfer next summer, with Inter demanding up to €50 million for him, despite his contractual situation.

Inter still want to keep Dumfries but they are believed to have identified two replacements already in former Chelsea man Juan Cuadrado, currently at Juventus, and Stephane Singo of Torino.

United or Chelsea, which team could land Dumfries?

United are believed to be concerned over Barcelona’s interest in Diogo Dalot and they will activate their option to extend his contract for a further season, although they anticipate the La Liga side could still make a move for him in the summer.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka is still at the club but United boss Erik ten Hag is unconvinced by the former Crystal Palace man and he will likely be a casualty if Dumfries ends up moving to Old Trafford.

The work continues, thanks for the support ⚫🔵 #ForzaInter #UCL pic.twitter.com/a3fY6glhnN
— Denzel Dumfries (@DenzelJMD2) October 12, 2022

Chelsea, meanwhile, wanted Dumfries as a backup for Reece James, who is now set for a spell on the sidelines after picking up a knee injury in their Champions League win over Milan.

Cesar Azpilicueta will likely deputise in James’ absence but the veteran does not offer the same physical and attacking threat as his teammate, hence why Chelsea wanted a more attacking alternative in Dumfries.

United are perhaps the more likely of the teams to move for Dumfries, with Chelsea set to prioritise funds towards other targets such as Christopher Nkunku, Josko Gvardiol and Rafael Leao, although more teams could be interested if he is available on a free next summer.