Chelsea and Tottenham have been dealt a transfer blow in their pursuit of Inter Milan star Denzel Dumfries. The Dutch defender impressed during the World Cup in Qatar and has been linked with a switch to the Premier League.
The Blues are looking to add a new right wing-back to Graham Potter's squad given Reece James' struggles with injury this season. The England international is currently sidelined after aggravating a knee injury first sustained back in October.
Antonio Conte is keen to reunite with Dumfries as he looks to upgrade his defensive options in January. Despite signing Djed Spence in the summer, Spurs are looking to add another right wing-back to Conte's squad to improve upon their current options in that position.
READ MORE: Erik ten Hag has already told Antonio Conte how Tottenham can stop Man City star Erling Haaland
Italian publication Tuttomercato have stated that Chelsea and Tottenham could be beaten to Dumfries' signature by Premier League rivals Manchester United. The report claims that Erik ten Hag's side have entered talks with Inter over a move for the 26-year-old defender who is available for only £35million.
The Dutchman had been ever-present in the Serie A this season, making 17 appearances - providing two assists and chipping in with one goal. United are looking to move on Aaron Wan-Bissaka with his former side Crystal Palace linked with a move for the English defender.
Dumfries may not want to join Chelsea given the likelihood that he would be James' back-up once the Blues star returns from injury. Tottenham will need to move on either Emerson Royal or Matt Doherty before signing the Inter star in order to avoid players being left unhappy in Conte's squad.
READ NEXT:
Mudryk starts, Felix stays, Nkunku in: Dream Chelsea attack after £123m Graham Potter transfers
Mykhailo Mudryk transfer continues Chelsea plan but Todd Boehly may need to make two exceptions
Chelsea take huge Declan Rice transfer risk as Arsenal seek Mykhailo Mudryk revenge
Chelsea handed Enzo Fernandez transfer hope as £70m bid prepared for January alternative
Chelsea news and transfers LIVE: All the latest news, rumours and gossip from Stamford Bridge
