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21 hours ago
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Manchester City could return to the market in January with Inter Milan defender Denzel Dumfries emerging as a potential target.
The Dutch international had a £21.5m [$29.1m] release clause that expired in mid July, closing one path for clubs to secure him.
Despite that deadline, his form for Inter and consistent performances for the Netherlands national team have ensured interest across Europe has remained intact.
The Serie-A star has already spoken about his ambition to test himself in England, a signal that Premier League clubs have not ignored.
“The Premier League is a fantastic competition,” he said.
“I’m happy at Inter, but I think I could also do very well in England. If there were a professional opportunity, I would certainly be interested.”
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Those words have heightened speculation especially with City’s search for a new right-back growing more urgent.
Man City assessing Dumfries as potential option
City’s defensive balance remains unsettled after Joao Cancelo’s departure and Kyle Walker’s move to Burnley.
Pep Guardiola has been forced to improvise even deploying midfielder Matheus Nunes at right-back in early fixtures.
Former Manchester United scout Mick Brown believes City recruitment staff are assessing options carefully with Netherlands international included.
“Dumfries is somebody who is on their radar,” Brown said [via Football Insider]
“He’s the Dutch international full-back, so they’ll know all about him, it’s not as if he’s a player going under the radar who they could pick up.”
“City will know what he can do and what he would bring to the team, so if the manager and the scouts agree he’s the right target, they’ll make a move.
“He’s been clear about wanting to play in the Premier League, so that’s opened the door for them.
“I think there are a lot of questions about this Man City side, especially at the back, and it’s something they’re going to want to address when they can.
“They’ve been playing Nunes at right-back even though it’s not his natural position.
“Obviously Rico Lewis can play there as well, but they don’t see him as the answer to the problem.
“Right-back is a position they really want to strengthen in, so there are a few targets on their radar and Dumfries could be one they make a move for if they decide he’s the right man for the job.”
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