Liverpool’s pursuit of Inter Milan right-back Denzel Dumfries has been dealt a major blow, with Real Madrid now emerging as strong favourites to land the Dutch international.

The Reds had been tracking the dynamic defender since the January transfer window as part of their long-term plans to address the right side of their defence.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that advanced discussions are now taking place between Real Madrid and the player’s representatives over a potential summer switch.

Romano also revealed that Dumfries holds a release clause worth €20 million, lower than previously reported figures, making him an extremely attractive proposition in the current market.

The journalist confirmed: “Negotiations underway between Real Madrid and Denzel Dumfries’ camp as it’s the favorite destination of the right back. Liverpool are also keen since January, even without Arne Slot.”

Reports from Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg suggest personal terms between Dumfries and Real Madrid are already close to being finalised, with only formal club approval remaining.

Liverpool are still keeping tabs on the Inter defender, who remains under contract in Italy until 2028, but the player is openly holding out for Madrid to complete the paperwork.

Dumfries has accumulated 49 goals and 61 assists across 459 career appearances, according to data from Transfermarkt, underlining his consistent attacking output from a defensive position.

Liverpool’s interest is further complicated by the fact that they already signed Jeremie Frimpong for the right-back role last summer, making a deal for Dumfries increasingly difficult to justify.

Frimpong showed superb ability during his time at Bayer Leverkusen but failed to replicate that form in his debut season at Anfield, disrupted by fitness problems and inconsistency.

Academy graduate Conor Bradley also struggled with injuries throughout the campaign, leaving Liverpool severely short of reliable options in the right-back position.

The shortage of defensive cover forced midfielders like Dominik Szoboszlai to fill in on the right flank at various stages during the season.

With an incoming manager, most likely Andoni Iraola, attention will now turn to whether Frimpong can finally reproduce the form that made him one of Europe’s most exciting wing-backs.

Real Madrid, meanwhile, appear set to exploit the €20 million release clause and complete one of the most cost-effective defensive signings of the summer transfer window.

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