Inter Milan seeks younger right-back to replace Denzel Dumfries after Real deal

Denzel Dumfries at Inter MilanREUTERS/Remo Casilli

Inter Milan is searching for a younger right-back to replace Denzel Dumfries after Real Madrid activated his €20 million release clause last week. The 30-year-old Netherlands international is set to join Real ahead of the 2026 season, leaving a key position open at the Italian club.

Inter Milan sporting director Piero Ausilio is already eyeing a replacement for Denzel Dumfries following the Real Madrid transfer. The Spanish club activated the €20 million release clause in Dumfries’ contract last week. The 30-year-old Netherlands international, who featured in the 2026 World Cup, is set to join Real Madrid next season.

Dumfries has made a notable impact at Inter Milan, contributing to 55 goal involvements in 207 appearances during his five years with the club. At Real Madrid, he is expected to compete for a starting position with Trent Alexander-Arnold under José Mourinho.

Despite the loss, Ausilio stated Inter will replace Dumfries “with a younger right back, a very good player.” He referenced previous right wing-backs at Inter such as Achraf Hakimi and João Cancelo, highlighting the club’s ongoing focus on talented players in this position.