Not the Cape Verdean hero, Real Madrid have signed the Dutch star at right back
Real Madrid have ended weeks of speculation over the right-back position by signing Netherlands international Denzel Dumfries from Inter Milan, opting for proven pedigree ahead of one of the World Cup’s biggest breakthrough stories.
The Spanish giants confirmed on Sunday that Dumfries had joined on a four-year deal after activating the Dutch defender’s reported €20m release clause, making him Real Madrid’s latest defensive addition ahead of the new season.
NO BEND DREAM FOR CAPAVER STARS
The move comes just days after Cape Verdean midfielder Sidny Lopez Cabral revealed that Real Madrid coach José Mourinho had personally approached him during the World Cup, sparking speculation that the tournament’s surprise package could emerge as a transfer target.
Sidny was one of the revelations of the competition. The 23-year-old made his mark on football’s biggest stage with a stunning curling strike against defending champions Argentina in the Round of 32, helping Lionel Messi’s side take extra-time before Cape Verde eventually went down 3-2.
Earlier in the tournament, the versatile defender and midfielder also impressed against Spain and Uruguay, performances that earned Mourinho plaudits.
“Mourinho sent me a message after Spain and Uruguay: ‘Well done! Keep going, believe in yourself’,” Sidny revealed after the World Cup campaign in Cape Verde.
The youngster also spoke warmly of his former coach, describing Mourinho as “the most honest person” he has worked with.
With Real Madrid looking for defensive reinforcements, Sidney’s ability to operate as a left-back, right-back or full-back has fueled suggestions that the Spanish club could take a closer look at him after the tournament.
Instead, Madrid opted for experience.
DUMFRIES ARRIVES IN REAL MADRID
Dumfries arrives after five successful seasons at Inter Milan, where he established himself as one of Europe’s most reliable attacking defenders. Since joining from PSV Eindhoven in 2021, the Netherlands international has made 207 appearances, scoring 27 goals and providing 28 assists, helping Inter to two Serie A titles and three Coppa Italia trophies.
The 30-year-old also played an important role as Inter completed a domestic double last season and convinced Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez that he was the right player to bolster a defense that had struggled throughout the 2025-26 season.
Madrid have made strengthening their backline one of their biggest priorities after missing out on both the La Liga and Champions League titles, with Perez promising a major defensive boost during his election campaign.
Dumfries becomes the club’s fourth signing of the transfer window following Marco Cucurello, Bernardo Silva and Ibrahim Konat.
For Sidné, however, the World Cup may have changed everything.
Cape Verde’s remarkable run and the defender’s performances against some of football’s biggest nations have significantly raised his profile across Europe. Mourinho’s public support only added to the intrigue, but Real Madrid chose the safer and more proven option – at least for now.
The World Cup has often launched careers among football’s elite. As Dumfries head to the Santiago Bernabeu, Sydney’s displays have ensured they don’t have to wait long for another European heavyweight to come calling.
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Issued by:
Kingshuk Kusari
Published on:
05 Jul 2026 16:55 IST