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Liverpool move to take advantage of Barcelona’s hesitation to land Xabi Alonso favourite

Barcelona’s pursuit of Jeremie Frimpong is at serious risk of being derailed as Liverpool move swiftly to secure the Bayer Leverkusen right-back. Despite being a long-standing target for Hansi Flick and Deco, financial limitations have hindered Barcelona’s ability to act decisively, allowing Liverpool to surge ahead in advanced negotiations for the 24-year-old Dutchman.

According to a report by Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal), talks between Liverpool and Frimpong’s camp have accelerated, with the player emerging as a priority signing for the Reds, who are preparing for life after Trent Alexander-Arnold. The England international is expected to finalize a move to Real Madrid at the end of the season, leaving Liverpool desperate to find a suitable replacement.

Liverpool push ahead as Barcelona falter

Barcelona’s interest in Frimpong dates back to last season, with the Catalan club eyeing the right-back as a potential solution to their ongoing defensive issues. Despite having Jules Koundé in their ranks, the Frenchman has often been deployed out of position, leaving the club in need of a natural right-back.

However, La Liga’s strict financial controls and Barcelona’s unresolved financial struggles have complicated matters. Flick has identified Frimpong as a priority, but the club’s inability to act swiftly has opened the door for Liverpool to pounce.

🚨🔴 Understand Liverpool are seriously pursuing Jeremie #Frimpong. Advanced talks have already taken place.

Following detailed analysis and due to his availability, he is currently one of the top options for #LFC to potentially replace Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Frimpong is… pic.twitter.com/R7CrlFbN8c

— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) May 12, 2025

Liverpool’s urgency to seal the deal is underscored by the fact that they are now operating without a top-tier right-back. While Joe Gomez and Conor Bradley have been used sporadically, neither can offer the offensive impact that Frimpong brings. The Bayer Leverkusen defender has been a standout performer in the Bundesliga, and with a release clause reportedly set between €35–40 million, the opportunity is there for Liverpool to complete the signing swiftly.

What Frimpong brings to Liverpool’s rebuild

For Arne Slot, the imminent departure of Alexander-Arnold presents a tactical dilemma. The England international’s creativity and crossing ability have been integral to Liverpool’s attack, and finding a player capable of replicating that output is crucial. Enter Jeremie Frimpong, a dynamic full-back known for his pace, dribbling, and ability to deliver pinpoint crosses from wide areas.

Frimpong’s attacking style aligns perfectly with Slot’s tactical blueprint, which places a premium on full-backs who can stretch the pitch and provide width in the final third. With Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez occupying forward positions, the addition of Frimpong would provide Liverpool with another potent outlet, particularly in transition.

Moreover, at just 24 years old, Frimpong represents a long-term investment. He has amassed considerable experience in the Bundesliga, showcasing his ability to operate effectively in both defensive and offensive roles. His energy and intensity would make him a perfect fit for a Liverpool side that thrives on pressing and quick transitions.

Liverpool are in advanced talks for Barcelona target Jeremie Frimpong.

With talks advancing rapidly between Liverpool and Frimpong’s representatives, the focus now shifts to whether Barcelona can mount a last-minute comeback in the race for the Dutch international. However, with the player keen to move to the Premier League, Liverpool appear to hold all the cards

For Liverpool, the opportunity to sign a player of Frimpong’s caliber for a relatively modest fee aligns with the club’s rebuild under Arne Slot. For Barcelona, however, missing out on a key defensive target will only serve as a reminder of the financial challenges that continue to hinder their progress in the transfer market.

Liverpool’s aggressive approach in the transfer market has once again proven to be a game-changer. In Frimpong, they are targeting a player who not only fills a glaring need but also possesses the attacking qualities that can transform their right flank.

For Barcelona, this is a bitter lesson in the consequences of financial mismanagement. They had the opportunity to move early and secure a much-needed defensive reinforcement, but their indecision and fiscal limitations have allowed Liverpool to step in.

In the end, Frimpong’s arrival at Anfield would represent a significant coup for a Liverpool side looking to bounce back after a disappointing season. Meanwhile, Barcelona’s search for a reliable right-back continues, and the club may now be forced to look elsewhere as they once again fall behind in the transfer market.

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