Inter Milan have been dealt a significant setback in the middle of the season after confirming that Denzel Dumfries will be sidelined following a serious injury. The Dutch international has undergone surgery, leaving the Nerazzurri urgently reassessing their options on the right flank.
With Dumfries expected to miss an extended period, Inter’s management have been forced into swift action in the transfer market. The club are now actively searching for a reliable replacement who can maintain the team’s balance and intensity during a crucial phase of the campaign.
Emergency Search Begins for a Right-Sided Solution
Dumfries’ absence has exposed a lack of depth in Inter’s right wing-back position, an area that plays a vital role in the club’s tactical structure. Known for his power, stamina, and attacking runs, Dumfries has been a key component in Inter’s system, and replacing him will not be straightforward.
According to reports in Italy, Inter’s scouting focus has shifted toward the capital, with AS Roma wing-back Wesley Franca emerging as a top emergency target. The Brazilian defender, born in 2002, is seen as one of the most suitable candidates to step in without causing a significant drop in quality.
Wesley Franca Identified as Priority Target
Inter’s interest in Wesley is far from coincidental. The young Brazilian has impressed with his consistency and maturity, establishing himself as a regular performer for Roma. His pace, defensive awareness, and ability to contribute in the final third have reportedly caught the attention of Inter’s technical staff.
Club sources believe Wesley’s playing style aligns well with Inter’s tactical demands. Comfortable operating along the right flank, he offers both defensive stability and attacking width—qualities essential for Inter’s wing-back system.
At just 23 years old, Wesley also fits Inter’s long-term squad planning, offering potential resale value alongside immediate impact.
Transfer Fee Remains a Major Obstacle
Despite strong interest, negotiations are expected to be complicated by Roma’s valuation of the player. The Giallorossi are reportedly unwilling to open talks for less than €30–35 million, a figure that presents a challenge for Inter’s current financial framework.
Inter’s ownership has maintained a cautious approach to spending, prioritizing sustainability while remaining competitive at the highest level. As a result, a straight cash deal at Roma’s asking price could prove difficult to finalize.
However, Inter are believed to have devised a creative solution to bridge the financial gap.
Frattesi Considered as Part of Swap Deal
To soften Roma’s demands, Inter are reportedly prepared to include Davide Frattesi as part of a potential deal. The Italian midfielder is highly regarded by Roma’s hierarchy and has long been admired by the club.
A player-plus-cash arrangement could significantly reduce the upfront transfer fee, making the deal more feasible for Inter. Frattesi’s inclusion is seen as a strategic move that could appeal to Roma while allowing Inter to reinforce a position of immediate need.
Negotiations remain at an early stage, but the willingness to explore a swap deal underlines Inter’s determination to resolve the situation quickly.
Why Wesley Fits Inter’s Project
Beyond his on-field attributes, Wesley’s economic profile makes him particularly attractive to Inter. The Brazilian currently earns around €2 million per season, a relatively modest figure that aligns with Inter’s wage structure.
His combination of youth, top-level experience, and affordable salary fits perfectly into the club’s recruitment strategy. Inter have increasingly targeted players who can contribute immediately without placing excessive strain on the wage bill.
This balance between performance and financial responsibility has become a cornerstone of Inter’s transfer policy in recent seasons.
Dumfries Undergoes Surgery in London
The urgency of Inter’s transfer search intensified after Dumfries officially underwent ankle surgery earlier this week. The procedure was carried out at the Fortius Clinic in London on Tuesday, confirming fears that the injury was more serious than initially anticipated.
While no definitive return date has been set, medical staff are expected to closely monitor his recovery over the coming weeks. Early indications suggest Dumfries could be sidelined for a significant period, depending on how he responds to rehabilitation.
Dumfries Speaks Out After Operation
Following the operation, Dumfries shared an emotional message reflecting on a difficult period in his career. The Dutch defender admitted the past month had been challenging, both physically and mentally.
“It’s been a tough month, full of emotions,” Dumfries said. “But the surgery went well, and the hardest part is now behind me.”
The 28-year-old emphasized his determination to return stronger, committing himself fully to the recovery process.
“I’m focusing completely on my rehabilitation and will do everything possible to get back on the pitch as soon as I can,” he added.
Inter Face Crucial Decisions Ahead
As Inter navigate this unexpected injury crisis, the coming weeks could prove decisive for their season. Securing the right replacement for Dumfries is now a priority, not only to maintain competitiveness domestically but also to preserve tactical stability in European competitions.
Whether Wesley Franca ultimately arrives or Inter pivot to alternative targets remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that Dumfries’ injury has forced the Nerazzurri into urgent action—highlighting once again how quickly fortunes can change in elite football.
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