Man Utd intensify contact to agree deal for 24-goal/assist star, €40m fee required - report
Manchester United have intensified contact to sign Bayer Leverkusen defender Jeremie Frimpong this summer, according to SportBILD.
The Red Devils currently have Diogo Dalot and Aaron Wan-Bissaka as their right-back options, but the latter could leave in the near future.
His current deal expires at the end of next season and as things stand, the club have yet to negotiate a new long-term contract with him.
Hence, there is a possibility that he could be sold for a quality replacement and SportBILD report that United have intensified contact to sign Frimpong.
The Dutchman currently has a release clause worth €40 million in his contract, but it expires before the start of Euro 2024. A decision has to be made before that.
Frimpong would be a quality signing for United
Dalot has been United’s main right-back under manager Erik ten Hag. The Portuguese has earned the spot with his improved offensive performances.
However, he has yet to make consistent goal contributions. Frimpong could be seen as an upgrade in that department amid his fantastic spell at Leverkusen.
Under Xabi Alonso, Frimpong has registered 13 goals and 11 assists from 40 appearances this season. He has predominantly played as a right wing-back.
The 23-year-old is also capable of operating from right-back which was his primary position during his time at Celtic and his early career at Leverkusen.
At €40m, he would be a bargain signing for United, but the big question is whether the hierarchy can convince him to leave Leverkusen this summer.
It seemed a likely possibility at one stage, but the scenario has somewhat changed with Alonso deciding to stay with the German champions next term.
Frimpong could be tempted to return to Manchester, having started his youth career at Manchester City, but the lack of Champions League football could be another drawback for United.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com