Real Madrid close in on Dumfries signing as Liverpool's interest fades after Slot exit

Real Madrid are closing in on a deal for Inter Milan right-back Denzel Dumfries, effectively ending Liverpool’s pursuit of the Dutch international following the dismissal of head coach Arne Slot. The 30-year-old carries a £21.6 million release clause, and talks between Madrid and the player’s camp are already under way.

Slot was sacked on Saturday, and while Liverpool are understood to still hold some interest in Dumfries, his departure from management is expected to shift the club’s transfer priorities and stylistic approach. The Dutchman had been identified as a potential target under Slot, partly due to their shared nationality, but Madrid have now moved to the front of the queue.

Real have made Dumfries their primary target at right-back as they look to strengthen their defensive options following a second consecutive season without a trophy — a run that also prompted a managerial change, with José Mourinho returning to the Bernabéu for a second spell. Personal terms between the player and the Spanish club are not anticipated to be a sticking point.

Reports indicate Madrid are planning to finalise the Dumfries deal once the outcome of Sunday’s presidential election is confirmed, with Florentino Pérez expected to be declared the winner. When Mourinho was reappointed, his conversations with the club included a clear wish list for summer reinforcements: a back-up right-back, a left-back to challenge 23-year-old Álvaro Carreras, a centre-half, and a creative midfielder.

On that centre-back front, Madrid have also reignited their interest in Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konaté, whose contract at Anfield has just expired, making him available on a free transfer. The timing is significant for Real given that David Alaba is also departing on a free this summer and Éder Militão has experienced fitness problems.

Liverpool’s full-back situation has already undergone considerable change. Trent Alexander-Arnold left for Madrid when his contract expired, replaced by fellow Dutchman Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen. On the opposite flank, Miloš Kerkez arrived from Bournemouth and is expected to remain first choice after Andy Robertson’s departure to Tottenham Hotspur on an expired deal.

Should Madrid complete the Dumfries signing as expected, Liverpool will need to look elsewhere if they wish to add depth or competition at right-back ahead of the new season.