Liverpool are reportedly ahead of Barcelona in the race to land Bayer Leverkusen star Jeremie Frimpong.
Liverpool are moving swiftly to secure the signing of Jeremie Frimpong, with advanced talks reportedly taking place as the Reds look to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is set to join Real Madrid after the current season.
According to a tweet from Florian Plettenberg, Liverpool have intensified their pursuit of the Bayer Leverkusen right-back, who has become a top target due to his availability and release clause set between €35-40 million.
The 24-year-old Dutch international has been a standout performer in the Bundesliga, consistently demonstrating his pace, defensive discipline, and attacking prowess. His ability to surge forward and deliver crosses mirrors the playing style of Alexander-Arnold, making him an ideal candidate to fill the void left by the England international. Liverpool’s urgency to finalise the deal is evident, with Plettenberg confirming that discussions between the club’s hierarchy and Frimpong’s representatives have already advanced significantly.
Liverpool Move Quickly as Barcelona Falter
While Barcelona have long held an interest in Frimpong, the financial difficulties at the Camp Nou have delayed their efforts to sign the Dutchman. New manager Hansi Flick has been pushing for defensive reinforcements, and Deco, the club’s sporting director, has been actively scouting players who can operate within the club’s constrained budget.
According to SPORT, Jeremie Frimpong was considered a top target due to his relatively affordable release clause, but Barcelona’s precarious financial state has left them unable to act swiftly. With La Liga’s financial fair play regulations tightening, Barcelona are in a holding pattern, waiting to assess their spending power for the upcoming season.
That hesitation has opened the door for Liverpool, who are wasting no time in capitalising on the opportunity. The Reds have already commenced negotiations with Leverkusen and Frimpong’s camp, and given that the player is eager to move to the Premier League, the deal appears to be moving in the right direction for Liverpool.
What Jeremie Frimpong brings to Liverpool
Liverpool’s defensive line has been in a state of flux this season, with Alexander-Arnold’s impending departure to Real Madrid leaving a significant gap on the right flank. While Joe Gomez and Conor Bradley have been used sporadically in that role, neither has the attacking impetus or natural right-back instincts that Frimpong possesses.
Jeremie Frimpong’s ability to operate as a right wing-back in a three-man or four-man defence makes him a versatile asset for Arne Slot’s system. The Dutchman’s speed and crossing ability could add a new dimension to Liverpool’s attack, particularly in linking up with the likes of Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez.
Additionally, at just 24 years of age, Frimpong represents both a present and future investment, fitting the profile of a player who can develop under Slot’s guidance and become a mainstay in Liverpool’s defence for years to come.
Barcelona’s Loss, Liverpool’s Gain
For Barcelona, missing out on Jeremie Frimpong would be a bitter pill to swallow. The Catalan giants have struggled to address their right-back conundrum for several seasons, and while Jules Koundé has filled in admirably, the Frenchman’s natural position is in the centre of defence. Frimpong was seen as a potential solution, but with the club’s financial situation in disarray and their inability to meet Leverkusen’s asking price, Barcelona appear to have fallen behind in the race.
For Liverpool, this is a prime opportunity to not only fill a vital position but also to send a message to their rivals. The Reds are in a rebuilding phase under Arne Slot, and securing a player of Frimpong’s calibre would be a significant step in the right direction. With advanced talks already underway, Liverpool are now firmly in the driver’s seat and Barcelona may have to look elsewhere for their defensive reinforcements.
This is a deal that could prove to be a masterstroke for Liverpool. In recent seasons, the Reds have been characterised by their attacking full-backs, with Alexander-Arnold and Andrew Robertson playing pivotal roles in the club’s success. With Trent set to leave for Real Madrid, the urgency to secure a like-for-like replacement cannot be overstated.
Frimpong, with his blistering pace and attacking flair, fits the profile of a modern right-back who can play in a back four or as a wing-back in a more advanced role. He’s also been one of the most consistent defenders in the Bundesliga, and given that he’s still just 24 years old, his best years are still ahead of him.
For Barcelona, this is a stark reminder of how their financial woes continue to hold them back in the transfer market. Despite Hansi Flick’s desire to bring in reinforcements, the club simply cannot compete with Premier League sides who have the financial muscle to act swiftly.
Ultimately, if Liverpool can close this deal, it would be a statement signing that not only addresses a key area of need but also keeps them competitive at the top level. In a season where the Reds are looking to reassert themselves in both the Premier League and Europe, Jeremie Frimpong could be the perfect addition to usher in a new era at Anfield.