Liverpool are closing in on the signing of Bayer Leverkusen right-back Jeremie Frimpong, who has a £29.5million release clause in his contract with the Bundesliga club
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15:58, 16 May 2025
Bayer Leverkusen wing-back Jeremie Frimpong
Jeremie Frimpong is in advanced talks with Liverpool(Image: Jorg Schuler/Bayer 04 Leverkusen via Getty Images)
Liverpool were rocked when Trent Alexander-Arnold announced his departure earlier this month. The 26-year-old's looming exit opens a gaping hole on the right side of Arne Slot's defence, and his decision to quit has left many of the Anfield faithful reeling.
But the Reds are moving quickly to remedy the situation, with reports claiming they're in advanced talks to sign Bayer Leverkusen full-back Jeremie Frimpong. The 24-year-old Netherlands international has been instrumental in Leverkusen's success under former Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso, fusing electrifying attacking flair with defensive tenacity.
Frimpong's adaptability, blistering speed, and track record in pressing systems make him a compelling addition to Slot's growing team. As Liverpool look to maintain their Premier League dominance, Frimpong could prove essential to ushering in a vibrant new chapter in the red half of Merseyside.
Here, Mirror Football looks at all the latest regarding Liverpool's pursuit of Frimpong — including the story behind a transfer that once slipped through the net.
Release clause
Frimpong has a buyout clause set at £29.5 million in his current deal with Leverkusen, and Liverpool are reportedly preparing to trigger it soon, as per The Times. Talks over personal terms have already taken place with his representatives, and an agreement is believed to be close.
Although the Reds are unable to make any money off Alexander-Arnold - who will exit on a free once his contract expires this summer - Frimpong's relatively modest clause ensures they won't be overspending on a replacement. That's one reason they've acted quickly, mindful that delaying could open the door for other clubs to swoop in for the bargain-priced star.
Jeremie Frimpong
Liverpool are reportedly preparing to activate Frimpong's £29.5million release clause
What Frimpong has told Leverkusen
According to Sky Sports, Frimpong has told Leverkusen of his intention to leave, and the German side have agreed to respect his wishes. Liverpool have monitored him for some time, and it's believed the Dutch star is excited about potentially joining the six-time Champions League winners, particularly if his past comments are anything to go by.
"Liverpool is a great club with history," he told Ziggo Sport in February 2024. "[Playing for them] would be great. Who knows what the future will bring."
Frimpong has long been open to a return to England, having spent his formative football years at Manchester City. Though born in the Netherlands, he relocated to the UK at age seven with his family.
Xabi Alonso and Jeremie Frimpong
Like manager Xabi Alonso, Jeremie Frimpong has been told he can leave Leverkusen this summer
He rejected Liverpool years ago
Frimpong has long-standing ties to the UK, having spent nearly a decade in City's youth setup after signing with them at age nine in 2010. But earlier this year, he revealed he was initially set to join Liverpool - only for travel logistics to get in the way.
"I chose Liverpool first," he told Rising Ballers. "I was going to sign for them, but back then, driving wasn't a thing. My family weren't driving and it was far. Man City was local... so it made more sense. It was 15 minutes on the bus."
Reflecting on his academy days alongside players like Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, and Jadon Sancho, Frimpong said: "It was crazy... When I was at Man City's academy all the players were good.
Frimpong and Van Dijk riding bikes
Jeremie Frimpong could be lining up alongside international team-mate Virgil van Dijk at Anfield next season
"[I realised] I wasn't the only one with talent... you have to fight for your position." He continued: "It's great to see them all playing in first teams now. It puts a smile on my face."
After excelling in City's youth system, Frimpong took a decisive leap to Celtic, a move that would fast-track his career and ultimately lead to his rise in the Bundesliga.
Cryptic post
Jeremie Frimpong
Frimpong's agent has suggested that an agreement is close(Image: Jörg Schüler/Bayer 04 Leverkusen via Getty Images)
Earlier this week, Frimpong's agent, Jeffrey Lemmert, added to the speculation by posting a cryptic message on Instagram: "We working," paired with hourglass and rock-climbing emojis.
The post hints that a deal could be nearing conclusion, with Liverpool eager to finalise transfers early in the window. With talks progressing and Frimpong's excitement clear, an official announcement could be just around the corner - potentially energising the fanbase.
As Liverpool adapt to life beyond Alexander-Arnold, Frimpong looks poised to inject fresh energy and attacking thrust into the squad. Having thrived in Alonso's dynamic system, his style is a natural fit for Slot's style of aggressive, fluid football. And for Reds supporters, the thought of seeing him at Anfield next season is not just thrilling - it now feels inevitable.
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