Barcelona End Pursuit of Dumfries as Focus Shifts to Koundé Extension

Barcelona have stopped trying to sign Inter Milan right-back Denzel Dumfries. They are now focused on keeping Jules Koundé and finishing a new contract for the French defender.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Talks between Barcelona and Denzel Dumfries have been stalled since June. Dumfries’ agent offered him to Barcelona, but the club showed little interest. They cited financial difficulties and a lack of urgency for competition at right-back as reasons. Inter Milan, where Dumfries currently plays, never received a serious approach from Barcelona. The club is prioritizing contract talks with Koundé, who is considered untouchable and vital to the team’s defensive stability. While clubs like Manchester City have made inquiries, Barcelona are confident they’ll secure a new deal with Koundé.

BARCELONA’S CURRENT SITUATION

Barcelona finished last season as winners in La Liga, well ahead of Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid. Under their new manager Hansi Flick, the club’s main target is to strengthen their attacking options, and they are closing in on a deal for Marcus Rashford. In the right-back position, Koundé and Eric Garcia are the first choice options, so a player like Dumfries is not urgently needed. With financial considerations in play, a €25m deal for Dumfries is not a priority for Barcelona, especially when he would not be guaranteed a starting spot ahead of Koundé. Reports confirm that Barcelona are finalizing a loan deal for Marcus Rashford from Manchester United, with expectations that he will add depth and attacking power to the team.

LOOKING AHEAD: NEXT FIXTURES AND CONTRACT TALKS

Barcelona are preparing for their opening La Liga fixture against Mallorca. Last season, they dominated internal competitions, and the goal would be the Champions League title for this season. A strong start is crucial for their title push. Securing Koundé’s future is a strategic move in this direction. Meanwhile, Inter Milan have Dumfries contracted until 2026. The Dutch international played a pivotal role for Inter last season, contributing 11 goals and six assists in all competitions. Barcelona’s defensive stability with Koundé, coupled with a potential attacking boost with Rashford, could shape their season’s successes, while Dumfries is set to remain a key figure for Inter as the new Serie A season approaches.