Netherlands head coach Ronald Koeman reacting with characteristic warmth to news that filtered through to the Dutch World Cup camp on Thursday.
Florentino Pérez confirmed the deal publicly during his Horizonte television appearance, making Dumfries the first new signing of the election campaign to be formally ratified rather than merely promised.
The right-back's move fulfils a dual purpose for Real Madrid — replacing the departed Dani Carvajal, whose contract expires this month, while also adding competition for the position currently occupied on a transitional basis by Ferland Mendy.
Koeman, who managed Barcelona between 2020 and 2021, could not resist a gentle dig when asked about his player's imminent move to the Bernabéu.
"I don't know if the transfer is completely closed, but if anyone deserves it, it is him. That said, I would have preferred to see him play for Barcelona."
The comment drew laughter at the press conference and was received by journalists as characteristic of Koeman's willingness to be candid in public settings.
Dumfries, 30, made 51 appearances for Inter Milan across all competitions this season, contributing six goals and eight assists. He won the Serie A title in his second full season at the club before this move ends his time in Milan.
He arrives at Real Madrid with 65 international caps and is part of the Netherlands' World Cup squad for the tournament in North America, meaning his official presentation is likely to be delayed until the summer.