Denzel Dumfries responds to Chelsea rumors as Inter Milan ace boasts a goal and two assists in Man of the Match performance for the Netherlands in Champions League Round of 16 win world vs usa

Dutch defender Denzel Dumfries has responded to rumors of a possible move to Chelsea in January.

The versatile Inter Milan star turned in a man-of-the-match performance in the Netherlands’ 3-1 win over the United States on Saturday, setting up a tantalizing quarter-final clash with Argentina.

Dumfries provided nearly identical assists for Memphis Depay and Daley Blind in the first half before adding his own goal nine minutes from time.

The 26-year-old joined Inter from PSV Eindhoven for just £12million in 2021 after impressing at Euro 2020 and made 65 appearances for the Nerazzurri, scoring seven goals.

Chelsea have been one of the clubs to follow the Dutchman and, when asked about the links with a move to west London, Dumfries admitted he was flattered by the links.

“Of course it’s a big compliment to be linked with Chelsea, but playing for Inter is also a big compliment,” Dumfries told The Athletic.

“Moving to Chelsea in January? I’m not focused on anything other than the national team and Inter.

Dumfries’ versatility makes him a key player at international and club level. He can play at right-back or as a right midfielder and has even replaced centre-back at times.

Capped 40 times by the Netherlands, Dumfries carries an attacking threat and has two goals and three assists for an below-average Inter side this season.

He was always there for Simone Inzaghi in Serie A and featured in five of Inter’s six Champions League games.

The same can be said for the Netherlands with boss Louis van Gaal regularly putting faith in the gifted right-back.

And his boss’ love continued on Saturday when Dumfries received a kiss from the former Manchester United boss after his exploits against the United States.

“Yesterday or the day before yesterday I gave him a big kiss and I’m going to give him another big kiss,” Van Gaal said before leaning over and giving Dumfries a peck on the cheek.