Time is running out for Barcelona as the club faces a crucial decision in the closing hours of the transfer window. The Blaugrana have until midnight tonight, July 31, 2025, to trigger the €25 million release clause of Inter Milan’s dynamic right-back Denzel Dumfries—or risk missing out on one of their top defensive targets.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Inter Milan are growing increasingly confident that Dumfries will remain at the San Siro beyond the summer, largely due to the absence of a formal bid from Barcelona. Despite long-standing interest from the Catalan club, no official move has been made as the deadline looms large.
The 28-year-old Dutch international has been on Barça’s radar for months, especially since Hansi Flick took over as head coach. With Sergi Roberto aging and no clear long-term starter on the right flank, Dumfries was seen as a perfect fit for Flick’s high-pressing, full-back-driven system.
Dumfries extended his contract with Inter Milan in November 2024, tying him to the club until 2028. That extension included the €25m release clause—a fee considered fair market value for a player of his experience and ability. Yet, despite this opportunity, Barça have yet to activate the clause, even as the clock ticks down.
The hesitation may stem from the club’s ongoing financial caution. Barcelona’s current wage bill and previous transfer obligations have left them balancing their ambitions with strict spending limits. Unless unexpected funds are released at the eleventh hour, it’s unlikely they’ll meet the price in time.
Meanwhile, Inter are preparing for life with Dumfries still in their plans. The Italian giants believe the clause will expire quietly, allowing them to negotiate from a stronger position in any future dealings. Without the clause, they could easily ask for €35–40 million, or even more, especially if English clubs enter the race.
It’s not just Barcelona watching Dumfries. Manchester United and Aston Villa have both shown interest in the past year, although they, too, have yet to make a concrete offer. That could change once the release clause disappears and Inter regain full control of negotiations.
For Barcelona, it’s a missed opportunity in the making. Dumfries is a proven performer at both club and international levels, known for his pace, physicality, and attacking contributions down the flank. He would not only fill a tactical void but also bring immediate experience to a young backline.
The situation becomes even more frustrating for fans when seen in the context of the club’s current right-back depth. João Cancelo’s future remains uncertain, and Hector Fort, while promising, is still considered a developmental player. Dumfries would offer stability and Champions League pedigree from day one.
With just hours to go, all eyes are on Barcelona’s boardroom. Will they make a last-minute move, or will another high-potential signing slip through their fingers? The answer could shape their entire season—and once the deadline passes, there will be no turning back.
Whether this is strategic hesitation or a sign of deeper financial limitations, one thing is clear: Barcelona are at a crossroads, and their failure to act now could leave them searching for answers when it’s already to