Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag could entice Inter Milan right-back Denzel Dumfries to Old Trafford this summer, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.
The Lowdown: Dumfries profiled
The 26-year-old wing-back enjoyed a brilliant 2022 World Cup with the Netherlands at the end of last year, helping them reach the quarter-finals of the competition.
Dumfries scored once and assisted twice from his advanced wing-back role, providing energy down the flank and further enhancing his reputation.
Meanwhile, at Inter, the Dutchman has made 20 appearances in Serie A this season, as well as five in the Champions League, proving to be an important figure following a move from PSV, where he racked up 36 goal involvements from 124 appearances.
The Latest: United backed to make move
Speaking to Give Me Sport, O’Rourke said Dumfries is a long-term target and Ten Hag could personally drive the move to convince the player to join:
“I think it can only help that there is a Dutchman in charge of Manchester United and that could maybe help persuade Denzel Dumfries to make the move to Old Trafford.
“He’s been a long-term target for Manchester United in recent seasons. He is a real buccaneering right-back who loves to attack. He looks like he’s got all the attributes to be a success in the Premier League with the style of play that he has.”
The Verdict: Shrewd summer signing
Dumfries has indeed been linked with a move to United in the recent past and he is someone who could be a really shrewd addition, coming in as an upgrade on Aaron Wan-Bissaka, should he depart.
The Inter man was hailed as a ‘breathless’ player by Micah Richards during the World Cup and he would bring more attacking thrust than both Wan-Bissaka and Diogo Dalot.
That is highlighted by a tally of 44 assists and 29 goals during his club career, whereas Dalot has scored just twice in 91 appearances for United, for example.
Dumfries may feel that this summer is the right time for a new challenge and he is exactly the type of player who could help United find another gear, adding squad depth, experience and end product.
