Denzel Dumfries to Real Madrid, Inter eye Marco Palestra

Denzel Dumfries will leave Inter for Real Madrid after five seasons, with a €20m clause triggered. Inter have identified Atalanta right‑back Marco Palestra as their priority target for the 2026‑27 season. Real Madrid have agreed to meet the €20m clause and signed the 30‑year‑old following medical tests conducted while he was on international duty before the World Cup. The move completes Dumfries’ five‑year spell at Inter. A photo by Marco Luzzani captured Dumfries celebrating a goal in the Serie A match against Como 1907. Inter coach Cristian Chivu said the club has both “plan A and plan B” for each position and that the summer window can bring unexpected situations. He added that the club’s structure remains solid despite the Dutch defender’s departure. Marco Palestra, contracted with Atalanta until June 2029, spent the 2025‑26 season on loan at Cagliari, where his performances earned him a senior Italy call‑up in March 2026. Atalanta are expected to demand a fee close to €50m for the 21‑year‑old right‑back. A photo by Enrico Locci showed Palestra in action during the Serie A clash between Cagliari and US Lecce. Inter entered the 2025‑26 campaign with a domestic double, winning the Serie A title and the Coppa Italia, and now aim to progress further in the Champions League after a knockout‑play‑off exit to Bodo/Glimt. The club will rely on its youth and new signings to stay competitive on all fronts.