How Liverpool could line up in 2026-27 with Denzel Dumfries if Arne Slot sanctions move

Liverpool’s 2026-27 lineup could feature Denzel Dumfries in a dynamic new system, boosting attacking width and defensive strength in a revamped squad next season

Denzel Dumfries could be an option for Liverpool at right-back(Image: Getty Images)

Liverpool remains in contention to sign Denzel Dumfries from Inter Milan this summer, with the defender strongly linked to a move to Anfield ahead of the transfer window.

A €25 million ($29 million) release clause in his Inter contract is set to become active, making a deal more attainable. At 30, Dumfries falls outside Liverpool’s typical recruitment profile, but his experience could prove valuable during a transitional summer that will also see the departures of vice-captain Andy Robertson and Mohamed Salah.

The Reds could be in the market for a new right-back with the position severely lacking depth amid injury issues during the current campaign.

Jeremie Frimpong, Joe Gomez and Conor Bradley have all spent time on the sidelines with injuries this season with. the likes of Curtis Jones and Dominik Szoboszlai deputizing at right-back.

With Salah leaving, it leaves a gap at right-wing. RB Leipzig forward Yan Diomande has long been linked with Liverpool. following his breakout campaign in Germany., however it remains to be seen whether the Reds will make a move for the 19-year-old. Liverpool could also utilize Frimpong up front with his speed and agility.

With Ibrahima Konate now expected to remain at the club, it reduces the urgency to recruit a new center-back. The Reds completed an $82 million deal for Jeremy Jacquet at the end of the January transfer window, with the defender set to arrive ahead of the 2026/27 season.

The 20-year-old was initially viewed as a long-term replacement for Konat, who was widely expected to leave at the time but will now provide depth, while 19-year-old Giovanni Leoni is edging closer to a return after suffering an ACL injury on his Liverpool debut.

Denzel Dumfries has been linked with a move to Liverpool(Image: 2026 Getty Images)

With Robertson also departing, Milos Kerkez is expected to step in as the established first-choice left-back. In midfield, the core could remain largely unchanged, with Szoboszlai and Ryan Gravenberch continuing in their roles alongside Florian Wirtz, who is gradually settling into life at Anfield.

Hugo Ekitike was expected to lead Liverpool's attack next season, but the French striker has ruptured his Achilles in a defeat to Paris Saint-Germain at Anfield. He is now set to miss the remainder of the season, the World Cup, and a significant part of 2026/27, putting pressure on Alexander Isak to step up.

One frustration for Liverpool F.C. fans during the 2025/26 season has been the left-wing position. Cody Gakpo has largely kept his place despite criticism over inconsistent and underwhelming performances. Meanwhile, 17-year-old Rio Ngumoha has impressed supporters with his lively cameos off the bench, offering glimpses of real potential.

Potential Liverpool XI: Alisson; Dumfries, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Szoboszlai, Gravenberch, Wirtz; Frimpong, Isak and Ngumoha.