Inter Linchpin Dumfries Poised for Real Madrid Switch | OneFootball

Real Madrid have suddenly accelerated their pursuit of Denzel Dumfries, and, considering his affordable release clause, they just need to activate it and reach an agreement with him. They appear to have already done so, and he’ll join when technically possible, Fabrizio Romano reports (via SOSFanta).

The deal could take a while to be official. Los Galacticos have yet to formally appoint José Mourinho, which will happen after Florentino Perez’s re-election. Les Merengues will also add Ibrahima Konaté, who’s leaving Liverpool on a free. He had been linked to the Nerazzurri and Juventus, but his requests on personal terms were too rich for Serie A’s standards.

Real Madrid will have to wait to announce Dumfries because his release clause comes into effect in the first two weeks of July. It’s lower than previously reported, €20M, as it decreases yearly. Inter had to agree to it in 2024 because they feared he would have departed on a Bosman move otherwise. He’s on his way out after logging 27 goals and 28 assists in 207 appearances and contributing to 2 Scudetto and 3 Coppa Italia triumphs.

The Nerazzurri will continue to try for Marco Palestra, after their first bid was rejected. They might include youngster Matteo Cocchi in the package, Gianluca Di Marzio reports.

Our Take on Real Madrid Snatching Dumfries

The transfer came out of the blue, but it didn’t need much negotiating. The income is subpar, but the loss isn’t too hefty, as he’s 30 and coming off a down year. It might take a while and more haggling, but it looks like the Palestra deal will eventually happen. He’ll need some learning, but it’ll be an easy transition, and he could erase the gap in a season or two.