La Liga heavyweights Barcelona are reportedly weighing up a move to sign 21-year-old Dutch right-back Jeremie Frimpong from Bundesliga outfit Bayer Leverkusen.
According to a report by Spanish publication SPORT, Jeremie Frimpong has emerged on the radar of Barcelona. The Catalan giants have drawn up a shortlist of right-backs to target next year. And the 21-year-old Bayer Leverkusen defender is one of the targets for the Blaugrana.
Jeremie Frimpong has taken his career to a new level since joining Bayer Leverkusen from Celtic. The Dutch right-back has established himself as one of the best full-backs in the Bundesliga and become a pivotal figure for Die Werkself. And he has also earned a call-up to the Netherlands’ squad for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Despite Bayer Leverkusen’s inconsistencies, the 21-year-old has enjoyed a solid 2022/23 campaign thus far. He has five goals and three assists in 21 appearances across all competitions. And Frimpong’s progress has not gone unnoticed, with Barcelona being the latest team to consider signing him.
The Blaugrana had also shown interest in Frimpong in the summer transfer window. But a move did not materialise, and Barcelona eventually signed Hector Bellerin. However, the Spaniard has only signed a one-year contract and will unlikely extend his stay at Spotify Camp Nou beyond the ongoing season.
In addition, Sergi Roberto has struggled with fitness issues and is well past his peak. Barcelona will thus need to delve into the market for a right-back next year. And several players, including Diogo Dalot, have emerged on Barcelona’s radar. But signing the Manchester United defender might be complicated.
Frimpong is thus a viable alternative for Barcelona to consider. The 21-year-old has his best years well ahead of him, and Xavi can mould the youngster to his liking. But recent reports have claimed that Bayer Leverkusen will not entertain any offers for the Dutchman in January. So Barcelona might have to keep the options open next year.
Barcelona will be better off pursuing another player if they wish to sign a right-back in January. But it will be interesting to see if the Blaugrana can land the Bayer Leverkusen right-back in the summer when the Bundesliga giants might have to sell the 21-year-old.
