Real Madrid is reportedly on the verge of beating Liverpool to the signing of Inter Milan's dynamic right-back, Denzel Dumfries. The Dutch international, who has been a long-term target for the Reds, is now said to favor a move to the Santiago Bernabeu.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Real Madrid is in advanced talks with Dumfries and his representatives. Crucially, a €20 million release clause, lower than previously thought, makes the defender an attractive prospect for the Spanish giants. Romano confirmed that negotiations are ongoing, with Madrid emerging as the player's preferred destination, even with Liverpool's continued interest.
Further reports from Sky Germany's Florian Plettenberg suggest that personal terms are nearly finalized between Dumfries and Real Madrid, with only the club's official approval pending. While Liverpool has been tracking the 28-year-old since January, his desire to complete the move to Madrid puts the Premier League club on the back foot.
Liverpool has identified the right-back position as an area needing reinforcement due to persistent issues. Despite signing Jeremie Frimpong last summer, his season was hampered by injuries and inconsistency. Academy product Conor Bradley also faced fitness challenges, forcing midfielders like Dominik Szoboszlai to fill in at right-back at times.
Dumfries, currently under contract with Inter Milan until 2028, presents a significant transfer market opportunity due to his €20 million release clause. Real Madrid's swift negotiations and the player's willingness to move to Spain appear to be closing the deal. The complexity is amplified by Liverpool's recent investment in Frimpong, who struggled to replicate his previous form at Anfield, raising questions about how a new manager might unlock his potential.
