Denzel Dumfries sends come-and-get-me call to Manchester City after sacking management agency

Inter Milan and Netherlands defender Denzel Dumfries has put Manchester City on high alert after ditching super-agent Jorge Mendes to seek an exit, as per reports.

Pep Guardiola and co have seemingly never solved the right-back issues that seem to be weakening an otherwise world-class squad since the departure of Kyle Walker, who joined Burnley permanently this summer after a brief loan spell at AC Milan earlier this year. 

And although Matheus Nunes has impressed and exceed expectations at right-back this season – with the odd blip – a permanent starter in the position should be high up on Guardiola’s recruitment list as there are no back-up choices other than Rico Lewis, whose varying repertoire makes him a better option in midfield, and perhaps John Stones.

For a long time, Manchester City had the same issue on the left before Nico O’Reilly broke into the senior squad and established himself as a potent option at left-back towards the back end of the 2024-25 campaign.

Unfortunately, those same struggles persist as Guardiola and co scout the market for further options in the right-back role, and a huge decision by Inter Milan defender Denzel Dumfries has pushed the potential of a summer move further.

The 29-year-old has decided to end his professional relationship with Jorge Mendes’ agency, which represents other players including Cristiano Ronaldo, Lamine Yamal, Vitinha and Bernardo Silva, as reported by Gazzetta dello Sport and relayed by Goal. 

The decision is being viewed across the entirety of Europe as a clear sign of intent, with players historically switching representation when they are seeking an exit – something that Dumfries’ current agent Mendes has failed to materialise. 

It is now thought that Dumfries, who has long been linked with Barcelona and Manchester City, is taking control of his future – which suggests he is preparing for a departure from the San Siro in the summer of 2026.

In addition to the split from his agent, Dumfries’ contract presents the possibility of a short-lived release clause in July valued at £22 million – which for a seasoned full-back with Champions League final experience – is certainly worth the hedge for Manchester City.

For Barcelona, this deal would be ideal given the fee is a fixed number and works well with their financial constraints – going back to the Covid-19 pandemic – still playing a huge role in their transfer strategies. Meanwhile Guardiola values all elements in Dumfries’ game, ultimately fitting the bill for a future deal. 

The Nerazzurri right-back’s minutes have been limited recently due to him being sidelined with an ankle injury he sustained in November, suggesting that he may miss what remains of the 2025 football calendar.

This has inevitably cast doubt over a potential move in January but with the discovery of his release clause coming in July, it is likely that City, Barcelona or any other willing suitor could materialise their interest in the months to come.