Liverpool’s pursuit of Inter Milan defender Denzel Dumfries is in serious jeopardy, with Real Madrid now emerging as strong favorites to secure the Dutch international’s signature this summer.
The Reds have been tracking the powerful defender since the January window as part of their long-term plans to strengthen the defensive side, but developments in Spain have changed the transfer landscape significantly.
Real Madrid are close to signing Denzel Dumfries
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, advanced talks are now underway between Real Madrid and the player’s representatives, with the defender reportedly interested in a move to the Santiago Bernabeu.
Romano also revealed important financial details: Dumfries has a release clause worth €20m, which is lower than previously reported figures, making him a very attractive market prospect.
? Talks are ongoing between Real Madrid and Denzel Dumfries’ camp as they are a favorite destination for right-backs.
Liverpool have also been keen since January, even without Arne Slot.
?? A €20m release clause and not €25m, as revealed today.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 2, 2026
More reports from the Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg they suggest that personal terms between Dumfries and Real Madrid are already close to being finalized, with only official approval remaining from the Spanish club’s management.
While Liverpool continue to look for the Inter defender, who is still under contract in Italy until 2028, the player has admitted that Madrid have completed the paperwork, leaving us firmly on the back foot.
If activated, this clause would allow Madrid to complete the most expensive defensive signing of the summer.
| The club | Applications | Goals | It helps |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inter Milan | 207 | 27 | 28 |
| PSV Eindhoven | 124 | 16 | 20 |
| Sparta Rotterdam | 72 | 2 | 5 |
| SC Heerenveen | 37 | 4 | 8 |
| Sparta U21 | 14 | 0 | 0 |
| Barendrecht U19 | 4 | 0 | 0 |
| Sparta U19 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Total | 459 | 49 | 61 |
Denzel Dumfries career statistics via Transfermarkt
Liverpool’s position at right back is still a problem
Liverpool have long identified Dumfries as a priority due to ongoing structural issues at right-back.
Although the club invested heavily in Jeremie Frimpong last summer to add attack and speed, his first season has been marred by fitness issues and inconsistency.
In addition, academy graduate Conor Bradley has also struggled with injuries, leaving Liverpool short of reliable replacement options.
Because of this, midfielders like Dominik Szoboszlai were forced to fill in defensively.
Big season ahead for Jeremy Frimpong
Dumfries remains under contract at Inter Milan until 2028, but the presence of a €20 million release clause has created a rare opportunity in the transfer market.
Real Madrid has accelerated the negotiations and the player is about to go to Spain.
And while Liverpool may be interested in the Dutchman, the fact that they only signed Jeremie Frimpong for a role last season makes a deal difficult.
Frimpong showed his great ability during his time at Bayer Leverkusen but failed to repeat that in his first season at Anfield.
That said, he wasn’t the only player who underperformed under Arne Slot’s tactics. That is why it will be interesting to see if the incoming manager, possibly Andoni Iraola, can unlock his potential next season.
