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Liverpool are reportedly making significant progress in their pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen right-back Jeremie Frimpong, with multiple reports suggesting a deal is nearing completion.
The potential acquisition comes as Liverpool prepare for the departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is expected to join Real Madrid on a free transfer this summer. While Conor Bradley is in line for increased responsibility next season, the Anfield club has been actively seeking defensive reinforcements, and interest in Frimpong has intensified in recent days.
Florian Plettenberg initially reported that Liverpool were “seriously pursuing” the 24-year-old Dutch international. Frimpong’s release clause, estimated to be between €35m and €40m (£29.4m-£33.6m), makes a potential transfer relatively straightforward.
Fabrizio Romano further corroborated these reports, confirming that advanced discussions have taken place with Frimpong and that the player himself is eager to secure a move to Liverpool this summer. Frimpong, who previously spent time in Manchester City’s youth academy before joining Celtic in 2019, never made a senior appearance for Pep Guardiola’s side.
However, kicker provides the strongest indication that the deal is imminent, stating that Frimpong is “on the verge” of joining Liverpool. A five-year contract is reportedly close to being agreed upon, with only minor details remaining. Some sources even suggest that a full agreement may already be in place.
While Frimpong’s release clause limits Leverkusen’s control over the transfer, the German club is reportedly open to selling the wing-back following the departure of manager Xabi Alonso. Alonso’s preferred 3-4-2-1 formation was considered an ideal fit for Frimpong’s attacking qualities.
Alonso’s expected successor at Bayer Leverkusen is former Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag, following reports that Cesc Fabregas declined the opportunity. Ten Hag typically favors a four-man defense, a system in which Frimpong is not viewed as a natural fit.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot also employs a four-man defensive setup but could potentially afford Frimpong the same attacking freedom that Alexander-Arnold enjoyed, often allowing him to roam into advanced positions