Manchester United and Erik ten Hag target Denzel Dumfries described strengthening ties with Chelsea as a “compliment”.
Since Ten Hag’s arrival at Old Trafford, Dumfries has been linked to the Red Devils on multiple occasions, with the United boss keen on competition and a skilled substitute for Diogo Dalot.
However, in recent weeks, Premier League rivals Chelsea have been reported as the strongest suitors for the Inter Milan defender.
Tuttosport indicates that Inter Milan see Dumfries as one of the club’s most salable assets in their efforts to mitigate the club’s liquidity problems.
The Italian giants value the winger at 60 million euros, a figure that now seems more palatable after the player’s World Cup feat.
In the Netherlands’ tie against the USA yesterday, Dumfries was excellent, contributing to his team’s victory with a goal and two assists.
Tuttosport stipulate that all signs point to Chelsea as the most likely party to make an offer for the 26-year-old.
Speaking to The Athletic after the Netherlands’ win yesterday, Dumfries said of the Chelsea rumours: “Of course it’s a compliment.”
“But when you put on the Nerazzurri shirt it’s also a great compliment. I’m focused on the national team and I play for a very, very nice club in Italy.”
He added: “I’m very proud to be able to play for Inter, so I’m not concentrating on anything other than the national team and Inter.”
Dumfries’ future is likely to become clearer after the World Cup, ahead of the January transfer window.
If he is indeed someone Ten Hag wants, United must not allow Chelsea to have a clear run on him.
