Blow for Barcelona as Manchester City open talks with top defensive target | OneFootball

Barcelona’s plans to strengthen their right-back spot have taken an unexpected twist. According to Steve Kay, Denzel Dumfries, who has been on Barça’s radar for weeks, is now attracting serious interest from Manchester City.

The Dutch right-back, 29, has a €25 million release clause in his contract with Inter. With this clause set to expire on the 15th of this month, top European clubs are rushing to secure his signature before it’s too late.

Barcelona saw Dumfries as a standout option to upgrade their defence. His powerful runs and attacking contributions made him a top choice compared to other targets like Vanderson from Monaco.

However, financial fair play rules have forced Barça to prioritise their spending elsewhere this summer. The Catalan club has already secured goalkeeper Joan Garcia and is focusing on bringing in a left winger.

Because of these financial limits, Dumfries’ move to Barcelona was always going to be tough, and now City’s entry into the race has complicated things even further.

Manchester City step up their interest

Manchester City are interested in Dumfries. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Reports from Kay suggest Manchester City are already in talks with Inter about Dumfries. City’s need for a reliable right-back has grown after Kyle Walker, their veteran defender, signed for Burnley following their promotion to the Premier League.

Although Walker was once key to Pep Guardiola’s plans, his influence had faded in recent seasons, leading to a loan spell at Milan that didn’t work out.

Now, with Walker gone, City are eager to fill the gap with a player who can make an impact right away. Dumfries’ speed, strength, and attacking mindset fit what Guardiola wants for his system.

If City succeed in signing him, it would be a big blow to Barcelona, who hoped to add him to their squad but couldn’t match City’s financial power.