Signing a right-back has been one of Erik ten Hag’s main priorities since he took over earlier this year but with the focus being on other areas over the summer, the Dutchman was left with his inheritance in that position.
Diogo Dalot has completely ousted Aaron Wan-Bissaka at right-back and the Portugal international is one of the first names on the teamsheet under Ten Hag.
The manager is, however, keen on adding competition to the right-back position and Inter defender Denzel Dumfries, who also starred for the Netherlands at this winter’s World Cup, has repeatedly been linked with a move to Old Trafford.
Dumfries joined the Italian giants in 2021 and since then, when he replaced Achraf Hakimi, he has become one of Italy’s most potent wing-backs.
His fine form for the Nerazzurri has reportedly attracted the interest of several top European clubs, with reports from Italy now claiming there could be a bidding war brewing.
That’s according to Tuttosport, via FC Inter News, who say that Inter are hoping that Manchester United and Bayern Munich join Chelsea in the race to sign Dumfries.
As per the report, Dumfries is looking increasingly likely to leave Inter at the end of this season due to the difficult economic situation of the San Siro club.
It’s claimed that Chelsea remain interested in Dumfries despite his price increasing after the World Cup but Inter are now holding out for more money and if they get their way, it will be through a bidding war.
SN’s verdict…
Diogo Dalot has enough credit in the bank to see out the season as United’s first-choice right-back and if he commits to a new long-term deal, it’s likely that United would sign a lesser-known player to be his backup.
Integrating Ethan Laird into the first-team is also a possibility but as things stand, it’s Dalot’s position to lose.
