City Eye Dumfries as Walker Replacement

The 35-year-old England international completed his move to the newly-promoted Clarets in a deal worth up to £5m, leaving Pep Guardiola's side short of experienced cover at right-back.

Dumfries has caught the eye this campaign, particularly during Inter's Champions League run where he terrorised Barcelona's defence across both legs of their semi-final clash. The Dutch international bagged two goals and laid on three assists in those matches, showcasing the attacking threat that made him such a valuable asset at the San Siro.

The 29-year-old's €25 million release clause makes him an attractive proposition for clubs across Europe, with the buyout figure valid until mid-July. In a move that suggests he's serious about securing a summer exit, the former PSV man has switched representatives to help facilitate negotiations.

Barcelona had been monitoring the situation closely, but reports suggest the Catalans have decided against pursuing the defender due to their ongoing financial constraints. Their inability to meet UEFA's Financial Fair Play requirements has forced them to prioritise other targets, with goalkeeper Joan Garcia taking precedence over any move for Dumfries.

This development has handed City a significant advantage in the race for the Netherlands star's signature. Recent reports indicate the Blues are now in pole position to secure his services, with preliminary discussions already underway between the two clubs.

Transfer specialist Steve Kay has confirmed that City have begun exploring the possibility of bringing Dumfries to Manchester, viewing him as the ideal candidate to provide the pace and attacking impetus that Walker delivered so effectively during his eight-year stint at the club.

The timing couldn't be better for City. Walker's experience and consistency down the right flank were crucial elements in their recent successes, and finding a suitable replacement has become an urgent priority with the new season fast approaching.

Dumfries would bring a different dimension to City's play. Where Walker offered relentless energy and defensive solidity, the Inter man provides more of a goal threat from wide areas. His ability to contribute in the final third could add another string to City's already formidable attacking bow.

With Barcelona seemingly out of the picture and City's financial muscle flexing, a deal for Dumfries appears increasingly likely. The €25 million fee represents excellent value in today's inflated market, particularly for a player of his calibre and international pedigree.

Should the move materialise, it would represent shrewd business from City's recruitment team and provide Guardiola with a ready-made replacement for one of his most trusted lieutenants.

They state that the club had to a prioritise move for former Espanyol keeper Joan Garcia over Dumfries so as a result, they have been unable to get fully involved in the race for him.

It remains to be seen whether City will pursue their interest in Dumfries or follow up on their enquiry for Newcastle's Tino Livramento.