Reports suggest that Aston Villa has initiated discussions to secure the services of Denzel Dumfries, the Inter Milan defender. The 27-year-old Dutchman is predominantly deployed as a right wing-back for both Inter and the Netherlands, and is known for his ability to surge forward from the defensive line.
Dumfries has featured in 31 matches under Simone Inzaghi this season, contributing to Inter’s strong position in the race for the Serie A title.
In their current campaign, Villa has utilized Ezri Konsa as a full-back, providing competition for Matty Cash. Additionally, the club acquired teenager Kosta Nedeljkovic from Red Star Belgrade in January and recalled Kaine Kesler Hayden from his loan spell at Plymouth.
However, Unai Emery may consider further alterations at the right-back position during the summer transfer window, leading to speculation linking Dumfries with a potential move to Villa.
According to Calciomercato, an Italian outlet, Villa has taken their initial steps with Dumfries’ representatives, although no official offer has been made.
Dumfries’ contract with Inter is set to expire in 2025, and he has not yet agreed to a renewal. The report suggests that Inter would consider offers above €30m (£25.6m).
While it is possible that an official bid may still be made, Villa is reportedly waiting until the end of the season to determine their transfer budget, as they compete for Champions League qualification.
From Dumfries’ perspective, it may be challenging for Villa to convince him to join, as he is said to be looking for a club with a similar reputation and ambition as Inter, who currently lead Serie A and reached the Champions League final last season.
Despite signing Nedeljkovic in January, Dumfries would bring proven quality to Villa, especially considering that Alex Moreno was older than the Dutch international when he joined the club. It remains uncertain whether Villa has a strong interest in Dumfries.
However, if they were to make a formal approach, it could indicate that Emery is considering a switch to a back-three system, a formation he has briefly used this season.