Manchester United reportedly lead the race to sign Bayer Leverkusen defender Jeremie Frimpong, a target for Barcelona.
According to a report from Football Insider, Manchester United will face competition from Barcelona in the race to sign Jeremie Frimpong, with the Catalan giants looking to improve their defensive options. Bayer Leverkusen will demand £40-50 million to part ways with the Dutch right-back.
Barcelona have had to use centre-backs as makeshift right-backs this season, and they need a quality full-back. Frimpong, who recently emerged on their radar, would be a superb acquisition, and he would add a new dimension to their attack.
The 22-year-old defender has eight goals and nine assists to his name across all competitions. And he has the potential to develop into a world-class full-back. Furthermore, he is capable of playing as a winger as well. And his arrival will add some much-needed tactical flexibility to the squad. Frimpong’s versatility will be an added bonus as well.
Meanwhile, Manchester United could look to replace Aaron Wan-Bissaka at the end of the season. The former Crystal Palace defender has not been at his best since moving to Old Trafford, and he has fallen down the pecking order at the Premier League club. He needs to leave in order to get his career back on track.
Wan-Bissaka is unlikely to get regular first-team opportunities at Manchester United next season if they sign a right-back. So it makes sense for him to move on in the summer. Frimpong has thus emerged as a viable target.
The 22-year-old Dutchman has impressed Erik ten Hag with his performances in the Bundesliga this season. So it will be interesting to see if Manchester United are willing to pay up for his services. Apparently, the defender will cost around £40-50 million, and the Red Devils certainly have the financial muscle to pull off the move.
Meanwhile, Barcelona are going through financial difficulties, and Manchester United will fancy their chances of beating the Spanish giants to his signature. And the report claims that the Manchester United are ahead of Barcelona in the race to sign Frimpong.
The 22-year-old has already proven his quality in the Bundesliga, and he will be hoping to test himself at a higher level. The opportunity to play for a top La Liga club or a Premier League club is likely to be an attractive option for him and he will be keen on the move.