It has been reported that Manchester United’s transfer plans this summer seem to have changed following the rumours surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo’s impending exit, which has been strengthened by his absence from training and the squad for the preseason tour this summer.
The Manchester Evening News has reported that as well as signing a new central defender this summer, Erik ten Hag will look to sign a right-back. It has been suggested that the Dutch manager was happy to keep Diogo Dalot this summer and Aaron Wan-Bissaka has been given a chance.
However, that is not guaranteed to bring success with both seeming to be off the boil over the past few seasons and a new right-back could shake things up considerably this summer. United have already signed Tyrell Malacia, a left-back and are seeking to conclude more business.
Netherlands international Denzel Dumfries has played for Sparta Rotterdam, Heerenveen and PSV Eindhoven in his native country, signing for Inter Milan last summer in a €12.5 million deal which also included an additional €2.5 million in add-ons.
Last season, the right-back made 45 appearances for the Italian side, scoring five goals and seven assists. He made the move after a stellar Euro 2020 campaign last summer for the Netherlands and has been on the radar for United for the last few years – understandably so.
The fullback has a wealth of experience in his position and would be considered a good option for Ten Hag, despite being Dutch – which seems to be a standout factor this summer – either being Dutch or having played for a Dutch club at some point in their career.
Some people might disagree with that approach but the writing on the wall shows that United need a new direction and the manager should be free to implement that. The 26-year-old has made 278 club appearances in his career, scoring 27 goals and 40 assists, showing his ability and experience.
In mid-June, it was reported that Inter Milan had set a £26 million fee for Dumfries this summer which would represent a hefty profit for the Italian club having paid around £11 million for the player a year ago. United would find better value than the fee they paid for Wan-Bissaka.
It has been suggested that the former Crystal Palace right-back has been offered to clubs this summer which would result in United making a loss on the player, if there were any takers for him in the first place. It could well be that after the preseason tour, he could well be in the shop window.
Written by John Walker
