Given the play of Bayer Leverkusen right wing-back in Jeremie Frimpong, it’s hardly a shock. He is set to have a medical with Liverpool as talks over his transfer ramp up. The 22-year-old Bundesliga defender’s performance has become the gold standard recently. His desire to depart the Bundesliga side has made him a target for Europe’s elite, with Liverpool currently at the front of the queue for his signature.
Frimpong’s incredible attacking stats so far this 2023/24 season really show how effective he is at going forward. Indeed, no player has completed more than his 168 attempted take-ons, making him a nightmare for defenders to deal with. Under young manager Xabi Alonso, he plays a two-way role. He combines that doggedness with audacity as he helps Bayer Leverkusen build attacks that lead to important goals and assists. Frimpong was the key figure in Leverkusen’s glory run last season, as they won the German domestic double.
A Move Away from Bayer Leverkusen
Frimpong’s plans to depart Bayer Leverkusen for pastures new first started to appear when he told the Bundesliga side that he wanted to move on. Under his leadership, he experienced tremendous success during his time in Germany. He moved from Manchester City’s academy to Celtic for £300,000 in September 2019 before eventually joining Leverkusen. His release clause, which is €35 million (£29.5 million) at the moment, is one that Liverpool looks set to trigger.
The Ivory Coast international’s expected switch is viewed as a chance for Liverpool to improve their squad depth and attacking options. Even if he signs, he won’t make a dent in their game-changing plan. Trent Alexander-Arnold is already providing more passing angles from deeper zones. So far, this season, Alexander-Arnold has made 82 successful take-ons. Additionally, he’s completed 16 through balls, underlining his ability to find dangerous chances for his teammates.
“So, there’s always an ongoing process and we have to make sure that we are prepared if we can strengthen the squad.” – Arne Slot
Comparing Roles: Frimpong and Alexander-Arnold
Though both athletes play the same position, their role has changed drastically on their teams. Frimpong’s duties at Bayer Leverkusen tend to require more advanced, attacking underlaps, while Alexander-Arnold is most effective behind-the-line, dictating the play from a deeper position. This agreeable difference in styles might result in a highly effective partnership if indeed Frimpong ends up finalizing a transfer to Liverpool.
Liverpool’s current front three has proven adaptable but the signing of Frimpong would add an extra dynamic to their attacking approaches. The dynamic young defender is known for his aggressive attacking style. This is in line with Liverpool’s quick-high tempo style which allows for instant changes from defense to offense and vice-versa.
“I’ve said many times already that we, as a club, are very happy with the players we’ve got,” – Arne Slot
Anticipation Builds Ahead of Medical
As Frimpong gets ready for his upcoming medical with Liverpool, excitement continues to grow with fans and pundits. The potential agreement between the two clubs is viewed as a strategic move that could bolster Liverpool’s chances of competing at the highest level this season.
If the transfer does occur successfully, we will see very closely just how much Frimpong shapes Liverpool’s tactical direction. His prowess on take-ons and his offensive contribution can add that dynamic piece they’ve been missing to their overall shape. This new deal, the club’s hierarchy concede, will make it tougher to attract talent to the squad.
“But it’s difficult to strengthen this squad. There’s a reason why we won the league – because we have so many great players.” – Arne Slot
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