Chelsea are reportedly preparing a move for Inter Milan wing-back Denzel Dumfries, potentially as Graham Potter’s first signing this January.
According to a report by Italian publication Corriere dello Sport, Chelsea will renew their interest in Inter Milan’s Denzel Dumfries, as new manager Graham Potter feels the Dutch international would be a perfect fit for his side. Dumfries has received praise from various corners of the world, and a host of clubs might be approaching Inter if the player is made available on the market.
Inter Milan’s dire financial condition allowed them to sell Romelu Lukaku to Chelsea for quite a hefty sum, but they might need some convincing to send Denzel Dumfries the other way.
The Dutch wide man will likely remain in Italy should a deal be struck and will join the club in the summer of 2023. The west London giants will be willing to quote around €50 million, and they might have to add a substantial premium depending on his performance in the upcoming 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Dumfries has been primarily used as the right wing-back at Inter Milan, and he has excelled in that role. His defensive obligations do make him pretty vulnerable, but he can inflict more damage with his attacking instincts.
The Dutch wide man will match the intensity of the Premier League, and his innumerable energy will open a new dimension for Potter who loves to explore new styles in his usual style. Chelsea also brought in Marc Cucurella from Brighton & Hove Albion, and the arrival of Dumfries could allow Chelsea to have one of the most fierce wing-back partnerships in England.
However, Inter Milan boss Simone Inzaghi would try to restrict a move for the Dutch international. Despite their slow start to the current Serie A season, the Nerazzurri are expected to throw a tough challenge for the title. And losing Dumfries would be a severe blow to their title ambitions.
Inter have lost some high-profile names in the last few seasons, with the likes of Ivan Perisic and Achraf Hakimi departing from San Siro. And the Italian giants have been the source of potential big stars in world football.
Chelsea invested pretty vigorously this summer, and new owner Todd Boehly will continue his spending splurge to make room for more players at the west London club. But with Chelsea seemingly reigniting interest in several players, including Edson Alvarez, Dumfries could be the subject of intense bidding by the Blues soon.