Liverpool faces the impending departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold this summer, with the English star rumored to be heading to Real Madrid. However, the Merseyside club has wasted no time and already set their sights on a potential replacement in Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong.
Frimpong, who has a €35 million (£29.6m) release clause, has reportedly caught Liverpool’s attention, with talks already progressing between the two clubs. If he arrives at Anfield, the 24-year-old Dutchman would be only the second outfield signing for manager Arne Slot since his appointment last summer. But what does Frimpong bring to the table, and how does he compare to Alexander-Arnold?
Frimpong’s Early Years and Rise to Prominence
Frimpong’s journey to prominence began at Manchester City’s academy, where he joined at just nine years old. Though he didn’t break into City’s first team, he later moved to Celtic in 2019, where his talents quickly shone through. In his first season, he earned the club’s Young Player of the Year award after playing a key role in securing a domestic treble.
Frimpong’s impressive performances led to a transfer to Bayer Leverkusen in January 2021, during his second season at Celtic. Under the guidance of Xabi Alonso, Frimpong’s career truly flourished.
Thriving Under Xabi Alonso’s Tactics
Frimpong’s development took off after Xabi Alonso’s appointment as Leverkusen’s manager in 2022. The Spaniard shifted the team to a back three, which allowed Frimpong to shine as a dynamic right wing-back. This change unlocked the Dutchman’s attacking potential, and he enjoyed a remarkable season, scoring eight goals and providing numerous assists under Alonso’s leadership.
Frimpong’s influence has only grown since then, with an impressive 26 goal involvements in 47 matches during the following season. Leverkusen finished the league unbeaten and claimed the German Cup. Despite a less successful season for the club overall, Frimpong still contributed five goals and 12 assists across all competitions, playing a vital role in securing a Champions League spot.
Comparing Frimpong to Trent Alexander-Arnold
Both Frimpong and Alexander-Arnold are known for their attacking contributions from the right side of the pitch. However, their styles differ. While Alexander-Arnold is renowned for his playmaking ability, often operating from deeper positions to orchestrate Liverpool’s build-up play, Frimpong’s style is more direct. He provides a constant threat from the right wing, excelling in both offensive runs and goal-scoring opportunities.
Frimpong’s ability to contribute goals and assists could make him a key asset for Liverpool as they look to fill the void left by Alexander-Arnold. While he may not replicate the Englishman’s playmaking duties exactly, Frimpong’s energy and attacking instincts would provide a fresh dynamic to Liverpool’s right side.
As Liverpool looks to rebuild and refresh their squad, Jeremie Frimpong appears to be a promising candidate to fill the massive shoes of Trent Alexander-Arnold.