Liverpool line up £33m deal to sign Man City academy graduate

Liverpool are set for a major summer overhaul under Arne Slot, and one of the key areas of focus appears to be the right-back position. With Trent Alexander-Arnold’s contract situation still unresolved, the Reds have identified Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong as a potential successor.

According to a report from TEAMtalk, the 24-year-old Dutch international has a ‘gentleman’s agreement’ with Bayer Leverkusen that would allow him to leave for €40 million (£33 million) in the upcoming transfer window. This clause has placed him on the radar of Liverpool, Manchester City, and Real Madrid, making it a highly competitive pursuit.

Frimpong, a product of Manchester City’s academy, never made a senior appearance for the club before moving to Celtic and later joining Bayer Leverkusen. His performances in the Bundesliga have made him one of the most exciting fullbacks in Europe, particularly due to his attacking prowess.

Liverpool’s Right-Back Dilemma

Liverpool’s long-term defensive strategy is currently in flux, with uncertainty surrounding Alexander-Arnold’s future. The England international, along with Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk, is out of contract in less than five months, and renewal talks have not progressed positively.

While losing all three on a free transfer would be a massive blow to the club, Liverpool appear to be moving proactively in securing replacements. If Alexander-Arnold does leave, Frimpong could be a high-quality alternative at right-back.

What Frimpong Brings to Liverpool

Frimpong has been a standout performer in the Bundesliga this season, scoring three goals and providing ten assists in 34 appearances. His attacking ability would add another dynamic option to Liverpool’s play, given his impressive dribbling, pace, and crossing ability.

However, there is a key tactical difference to consider. Frimpong has primarily played as a right-sided wing-back in Leverkusen’s system under Xabi Alonso. Liverpool’s fullbacks, under Arne Slot, have operated in a slightly more reserved role compared to the high-intensity pressing and overlapping play under Jurgen Klopp.

This means Frimpong would either need to adjust to a deeper role or Slot would need to tweak his tactical setup to accommodate his strengths. Liverpool already have Conor Bradley as an emerging right-back option, and some fans believe he offers more defensive stability than Alexander-Arnold.

The Transfer Battle Ahead

Liverpool are not the only club interested in Frimpong. Manchester City, his former club, have been monitoring his progress closely, and Real Madrid are also keeping tabs on him as they look for long-term successors in their defensive ranks.

While Frimpong’s price tag of €40 million (£33 million) is considered reasonable in today’s market, the competition from elite European clubs could drive up the bidding war. Liverpool’s newly appointed sporting director, Richard Hughes, will need to move quickly to secure the deal.

Will Alexander-Arnold Stay or Go?

Liverpool fans remain hopeful that Alexander-Arnold will sign a new deal, but the club must be prepared for all scenarios. If he does depart, Frimpong represents a strong option to replace him, particularly given his attacking output and versatility.

The coming summer will be a defining period for Liverpool’s squad rebuild. With Salah, Van Dijk, and Alexander-Arnold’s futures still in limbo, the club must make decisive moves to ensure they remain competitive at the highest level.

Liverpool have already lined up multiple transfer targets to strengthen different positions, and Frimpong’s potential arrival could be one of the most pivotal signings of the summer.

For now, fans will have to wait and see how negotiations unfold, but one thing is certain—Liverpool are planning for the future, and Frimpong could be a major part of it.