Incoming Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho is reportedly interested in signing Inter Milan right-back Denzel Dumfries, potentially casting doubt on the future of Trent Alexander-Arnold at the Santiago Bernabéu. According to Defensa Central, Mourinho admires the 30-year-old Netherlands international and views him as a potential reinforcement for the position.
Alexander-Arnold joined Real Madrid from Liverpool in the summer of 2025 but has struggled with form and injuries during his time in Spain. Despite being the first-choice right-back, he was recently omitted from the England squad for the 2026 World Cup finals, raising questions about his international future. The potential arrival of Dumfries would further complicate matters for the former Liverpool player.
Mourinho, who is set to take charge of Madrid at the end of the current season after his current spell at Benfica, is seeking to strengthen the squad ahead of the 2026-27 campaign. With Dani Carvajal set to depart, the right-back position is a priority. Dumfries, who has a release clause of €25million (£21.6m, $29m) in his contract with Inter, presents an attractive option due to his experience and current form.
The Dutch international has enjoyed a successful spell at Inter Milan, winning two Serie A titles and three Coppa Italia trophies. He has also reached the Champions League final twice with the Nerazzurri, in 2023 and 2025. His leadership and experience could be valuable additions to the Real Madrid squad, according to reports.
Interestingly, Alexander-Arnold may also face competition from his former club Liverpool for Dumfries’s signature. TEAMtalk’s transfer insider, Graeme Bailey, reports that Dumfries’s agents are actively exploring a move to Anfield. While Madrid is currently leading the chase, Liverpool’s interest adds another layer of complexity to the situation. The arrival of Mourinho and his preference for Dumfries suggest Alexander-Arnold’s long-term future at Real Madrid is far from secure.
