Inter Milan sporting director Piero Ausilio has confirmed there was a release clause in the contract of Man City target Denzel Dumfries.
The Netherlands international was linked with a move to the Etihad, along with Barcelona, last month. When asked specifically about the interest from Barca, Ausilio replied:
“No, we did not receive anything from [Barcelona]. There has never been anything in it. I can confirm there is a release clause, which was introduced during a difficult moment, but in my view we did well to protect the club’s heritage.”
It is believed that Dumfries’ buyout clause was worth €25m (£21.6m) but it expired earlier this month.
Dumfries was never a likely target
Although the Cityzens have been on the lookout for a new right-back since selling Kyle Walker to Burnley, signing the Inter wingback didn’t seem to be on the cards for a couple of reasons.
Firstly, Dumfries is 29 years of age so he would not have been a long-term replacement for Walker and, secondly, he specialises in playing as part of a back five, while City boss Pep Guardiola generally favours a back four.
Are Man City looking at any other right-backs?
The club’s top target was believed to be Tino Livramento but Newcastle have made it clear in no uncertain terms that the 22-year-old is not for sale this summer.
Flamengo’s Wesley was mentioned as a potential alternative but the Brazilian looks set to sign for Roma in a deal worth €25m (£21.6m).
Porto’s Martin Fernandes is another name that has been suggested in recent weeks. However, the Portuguese defender is just 19 and his release clause is €60m (£52m), which would be a lot to pay for someone who doesn’t possess a lot of experience.
In other news, a goalkeeper has responded to speculation linking him with a move to Man City
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