Manchester United could have a big advantage in the race for Denzel Dumfries due to Manchester City’s reluctance to pursue the Dutchman.

According to Football Insider, Manchester United could have a free run at Denzel Dumfries, with the advantage likely to be due to Manchester City’s reluctance to pursue the wing-back. Pep Guardiola’s side have concerns with his age as a starting point, which could let the Red Devils make an attempt in the January window.

Manchester United have struggled for relevance since the arrival of Ruben Amorim as their manager. Not only did the Portuguese manager change the system, but he has also struggled with helping the existing players adapt to the system that requires a back three and wing-backs.

Hence, there is probably a need for a specialist wing-back to be part of the system, and they are incidentally linked with Denzel Dumfries as an option. The Dutchman had a modest £21.5 million release clause during the summer, which could have been triggered in a specific time period in the middle of July.

Manchester City were keen on Denzel Dumfries, and while there were rumours that they might trigger his release clause, they did not pursue a deal. Given they are linked again with a future move, Pep Guardiola’s side could cool their interest as there are concerns over his age at the moment.

Manchester City are keen on Valentino Livramento, with the Newcastle United full-back fitting into their plans to recruit for the long-term future. However, their likelihood of backing out of the Dumfries pursuit hands the onus to Manchester United and allows them a free run at the 29-year-old Serie A wing-back from Inter Milan.

Manchester United to make Denzel Dumfries approach?

Manchester United does need a specialist wing-back in their setup to improve Amorim’s chances of improving the team. Despite being 29, a move for Dumfries would make so much sense for the Red Devils ahead of the January window, as they could potentially negotiate a reasonable fee with Inter Milan.

However, much will indeed depend on how much Inter Milan would demand to sell the 29-year-old Serie A wing-back, given he remains a key part of their team. Manchester United could potentially make an approach for Denzel Dumfries, but many factors will determine if they have a genuine chance to land the player.