Liverpool have reportedly lodged an official enquiry with Inter Milan regarding the availability of Dutch defender Denzel Dumfries, as manager Arne Slot faces a mounting defensive crisis at Anfield.
Defensive Crisis Forces Liverpool into Late Market Move
The Reds find themselves in urgent need of defensive reinforcements after losing another key player to injury. Jeremie Frimpong became the latest casualty during Liverpool's recent match against Qarabag, joining fellow right-backs Conor Bradley and Joe Gomez on the treatment table.
This leaves Liverpool without a single recognised senior right-back available for selection ahead of this weekend's crucial Premier League fixture against Newcastle United. The situation has prompted the club's hierarchy to explore potential emergency signings before Monday's transfer deadline.
Dumfries Emerges as Primary Target
According to reports emerging from Italy, Liverpool have made initial contact with Inter Milan regarding 29-year-old Dutch international Denzel Dumfries. The experienced defender has been with the Serie A giants since his 2021 move from PSV Eindhoven, making 194 appearances and scoring 25 goals while helping Inter secure a league title.
Dumfries' situation at the San Siro appears increasingly uncertain, with his current contract having just 18 months remaining. Inter Milan are reportedly already pursuing Genoa defender Brooke Norton-Cuffy as a potential long-term replacement, suggesting they might be open to negotiations.
However, Liverpool's pursuit comes with some concerns. Dumfries himself has faced injury problems this season, sustaining an ankle issue in November that has kept him sidelined for several weeks. Given Liverpool's immediate need for a player who can contribute straight away, this could complicate any potential deal.
Slot's Cryptic Transfer Comments
Liverpool manager Arne Slot addressed the mounting speculation during his pre-match press conference, offering characteristically enigmatic responses when questioned about potential transfer activity.
Regarding Frimpong's injury, Slot provided a mixed update: "Definitely not in tomorrow, out for a few weeks but not as bad as we thought. So something positive from something not so positive."
When pressed about whether Liverpool might enter the transfer market for defensive cover, Slot responded with typical ambiguity: "Yeah, you know the answer. It is that if we think we have a player who can help us and think it is possible, we will do so. They are conversations that don't take place in this room. I gave the answer I gave. If that means it's likely or unlikely...OK, it could be a quiet day Monday. You want to play golf?"
The Dutch manager elaborated on Liverpool's general transfer philosophy, emphasising the club's balanced approach: "We as a club always make decisions that we, at least, think [are] smart decisions. So, we not only look at the short term, we also look at the long term, longer term – that's why we sign young players as well, very good players but young ones that can still develop."
Slot continued: "Now we can see this development with a few. And it always depends on are there players available that we think can help us? And if they are, can we afford them? And does this also be helpful for the longer-term future because our players come back from injury as well?"
Strategic Considerations for Liverpool
The potential move for Dumfries represents a complex calculation for Liverpool's recruitment team:
- Immediate Need: With three right-backs injured, Liverpool require immediate cover for crucial Premier League and European fixtures
- Contract Situation: Dumfries' expiring contract could make him more affordable, but also means he might be available on a free transfer in 18 months
- Injury History: Both Dumfries and Liverpool's current injured defenders raise questions about short-term reliability
- Long-term Planning: Slot's comments suggest any signing must align with Liverpool's broader strategic vision, not just address immediate concerns
As the transfer deadline approaches, Liverpool face a critical decision: whether to pursue a temporary solution to their defensive crisis or trust their existing squad depth until injured players return. The enquiry for Dumfries suggests they're at least exploring their options, but Slot's cryptic comments leave the ultimate outcome uncertain.
