Manchester City has begun its actual steps to sign Dutch player Denzel Dumfries, the Inter Milan right-back, taking advantage of Barcelona's withdrawal from the race to acquire him during the summer transfer window, according to English transfer journalist Steve Kay.

Barcelona had shown significant interest in signing Dumfries earlier, especially after his impressive performance in the Champions League; however, financial fair play restrictions led the Catalan club to reconsider, focusing instead on other attacking deals, particularly after Nico Williams renewed his contract with Athletic Bilbao until 2035.

Dumfries, who is 29 years old, has a release clause in his contract with Inter Milan worth €25 million, valid until mid-July, making the deal quick to finalize if the parties agree on the details.

Manchester City is looking for a new right-back to compensate for Kyle Walker's departure to Burnley after the end of his unsuccessful loan with Milan, and Pep Guardiola sees Dumfries as an ideal option due to his European experience and attacking capabilities that fit the team's style.