Aston Villa Enter A Tough Race To Sign 29-Year-Old Wingback: Will He Be A Good Pick? | OneFootball

Aston Villa are not content to rest on their laurels. After a season in which they ranked among the best teams in England, Unai Emery’s team continues to think about growing. In the Premier League, the pace is relentless. The Birmingham club are well aware of this, and that is why, beyond good performances, the coaching staff is looking at the transfer market. They already have a solid foundation, but there are certain flaws in the squad, and one of those weak spots is at right-back. There, the team wants something more. They want someone who can make a difference both in defence and going forward down the wing.

Since Emery’s arrival, the team has changed their image. Villa Park is no longer a walkover for opponents. They competed well in the Premier League, played in the Champions League, will now play in the Europa League and showed that they are no longer a mid-table team. Players such as Ollie Watkins and Leon Bailey have taken a leap forward, but in key areas, such as the full-backs, there are still cracks. Andrés García arrived as a gamble, Matty Cash is still unconvincing with his performances, and that raises a question: who can strengthen that area?

Aston Villa want Denzel Dumfries

MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 27: Denzel Dumfries of FC Internazionale applauds the fans after 1-0 defeat following the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AS Roma at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on April 27, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

From France, journalist Sébastien Vidal left a clear clue. Denzel Dumfries, the 29-year-old full-back from Inter Milan, is of interest to several clubs. Barcelona have their sights set on him, but Aston Villa are not far behind in the race. Newcastle United have also joined the fray. He is a player with immense experience, international quality and an imposing physique. It is not surprising that the Villains have had their eye on him for some time. Their insistence on him is not based on whim, but on a clear need. Dumfries brings experience, attacking power and ability to contribute in defence as well

The Dutchman possesses speed, an immense attacking threat and an understanding of the game that elite right-backs have. At Inter, he has become accustomed to demanding situations. The Dutchman can attack by overlapping runs or slow down the game when needed and pass to the middle. He has the character to play in the Premier League and possesses immense energy. Dumfries would be a perfect fit for Emery. He is a better player than García and Cash. The Dutchman would be a clear leap in quality in an area that demands another level.

Is Dumfries worth fighting for?

Dumfries represents an immediate improvement. Emery needs players who can compete without needing time to adapt, and the Inter full-back fits that profile. He has Champions League experience, knows how to deal with tough opponents and could adapt well to a team that want to compete in every tournament with ambition. The Dutchman is not a gamble; he is a guarantee of quality. His addition could strengthen a weak area and give the wingers more freedom. With him, Villa would gain offensive depth without neglecting solidity at the back.

Can Villa beat Barcelona and Newcastle? It’s difficult, but not impossible. The Premier League carries weight, and so does Emery’s project. Dumfries could be attracted by the possibility of playing for a competitive team where he would be a regular starter. If the club act quickly and show ambition, they could close a deal that would have a direct impact on the starting eleven.