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Real Madrid have reportedly reached an agreement to sign Inter Milan right-back and Liverpool target Denzel Dumfries as they look to strengthen their defensive options.
The La Liga giants are said to have triggered his €20million release clause, with the Netherlands international emerging as a key target for the Spanish club.
Real Madrid are continuing to push ahead with squad planning despite uncertainty surrounding the upcoming presidential elections at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The club have identified the full-back positions as a priority following an inconsistent campaign in wide defensive areas. With Dani Carvajal’s departure this summer, Madrid are left with only Trent Alexander-Arnold as a natural right-back, increasing the urgency to bring in reinforcements.
Dumfries has emerged as a leading candidate. The 30-year-old has been a key figure for Inter.Dumfries was on the radar of Liverpool as the Reds also look to strengthen their right-back options.
Inter, meanwhile, are already exploring his replacement.Atalanta defender Marco Palestra is attracting interest from several clubs this summer, including Liverpool and Newcastle United.
The Reds remain among the clubs tracking him closely, having previously explored a move before turning their attention to Jeremie Frimpong.
Palestra spent the 2025/26 season on loan at Cagliari, where his impressive form saw him emerge as one of Serie A’s standout young defenders.
His performances were recognised domestically as he was named Serie A Best Defender, underlining his rapid development.
The highly rated youngster’s breakthrough also earned international recognition, with Palestra winning his first two senior caps for Italy earlier this year, further enhancing his reputation as one of Europe’s most promising defensive talents.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Inter Milan will now look to accelerate a move for Marco Palestra after agreeing to sell Denzel Dumfries to Real Madrid.
Romano posted on X: “Inter will now push to advance on Marco Palestra deal after selling Denzel Dumfries to Real Madrid. Premier League clubs also keen so open race, Atalanta to start negotiating at €50m initial price tag. €40m discussed with Inter, not enough.”
Reports claim Inter Milan have offered €40million plus €5million in bonuses for Palestra, who is now back at parent club Atalanta, although Atalanta are holding out for a fee closer to €50million.