Inter Milan Boss Breaks Silence on Dumfries Transfer Battle with Barcelona and Man City

Inter Milan's sporting director Piero Ausilio has categorically dismissed recent speculation surrounding a potential departure of Denzel Dumfries.

Although Dumfries penned a new contract with Inter in November, the defender has found himself linked with various transfer rumors throughout the summer window. The Netherlands international's agreement, extending his tenure in Milan until 2028, allegedly contains a release clause valued at just €25 million ($29.4 million).

This sum represents a bargain price for a player of Dumfries's caliber, attracting attention from several European clubs. Barcelona and Manchester City have emerged as the primary suitors seeking to secure the wing-back's services, though Ausilio has refuted any approach from the Spanish champions.

"No, we received no contact from [Barcelona]," Ausilio informed the media. "There was never any substance to it. I acknowledge the existence of a release clause, implemented during challenging circumstances, but I believe we succeeded in safeguarding the club's interests."

Barcelona had been seeking additional options at full-back, but the Catalan club has instead prioritized recruiting a winger for Hansi Flick's team. After failing to land Nico Williams, they are reportedly close to finalizing a move for Marcus Rashford.

Ausilio also appeared to dismiss connections to Manchester City: "We extended [Dumfries's] deal when there was a real possibility of losing him without compensation. I can guarantee that the clause concerns you far more than it worries us. Inter remain calm and he is content to stay."

The right-back position has posed challenges for Pep Guardiola's team following Kyle Walker's poor performances and eventual departure. Matheus Nunes and Rico Lewis alternated in the right-sided role last campaign, but neither could deliver consistent displays.

Dumfries is fresh from his most productive campaign at Inter, recording 11 goals and five assists across 47 matches. Despite the 29-year-old's outstanding contributions, the Italian powerhouse fell short of major honors, finishing second in Serie A, the Champions League, and the Italian Super Cup.