Liverpool to ‘Hold Talks’ Immediately with £29.7m Defender Over Summer Move – Report | OneFootball

Liverpool Eye Jeremie Frimpong in Swift Right-Back Pursuit – Talks Underway

With Trent Alexander-Arnold set to bring his glittering Liverpool journey to a close, the Reds are already moving fast in the market. As confirmed by DaveOCKOP, “Liverpool’s pursuit of Jeremie Frimpong has accelerated” with talks “due to take place today”. The Dutch right-back, known for his blistering pace and attacking prowess, has emerged as a top target to fill the void left by the Scouser-in-chief.

It’s no surprise Frimpong is being considered so seriously. His contribution of “4 goals and 12 assists from 35 Bundesliga appearances” stands as a testament to his attacking instincts – almost winger-like in his output. He played a critical role in Bayer Leverkusen’s historic Bundesliga title win in 2024 and has continued to shine despite the club’s dip this season.

Notably, his speed – “33.7 km/h, faster than Mohamed Salah’s 32.8 km/h” – adds a dimension that could transform Liverpool’s right flank into a blur of pace and productivity under new boss Arne Slot.

Deal Structure Makes Move Appealing

In a market often bloated with inflated fees and prolonged negotiations, Frimpong’s €35 million (£29.6 million) release clause presents an attractive opportunity. As highlighted by DaveOCKOP, the clause is “payable in four instalments”, giving Liverpool flexibility in managing their transfer budget while still securing a high-profile addition.

The mechanism of a release clause also removes a major headache from negotiations. As with Dominik Szoboszlai’s move from RB Leipzig, triggering the clause “means Bayer Leverkusen must accept the offer”, reducing risk and delay in finalising the deal.

Photo: IMAGO

It’s a rare scenario where a quality player is available for a set fee, without drawn-out haggling – something that will surely appeal to Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes as they reshape the post-Klopp era.

Dutch Connection Could Ease Frimpong Transition

If Frimpong were to arrive at Anfield, he wouldn’t be short of familiar faces. As DaveOCKOP reported, “He is close friends with Ryan Gravenberch… and has friendly relations with Virgil van Dijk and Cody Gakpo”. That existing chemistry could be pivotal in helping him settle quickly into both the dressing room and Arne Slot’s system.

Given Slot’s attacking philosophy and trust in overlapping full-backs, Frimpong appears to be a natural tactical fit. His proven experience in a high-tempo Bundesliga side and versatility as both a wing-back and orthodox full-back give Slot options – especially with European football on the calendar.

Alternatives Still on the Table

While Frimpong may be the standout candidate, Liverpool are doing their due diligence. The club is also monitoring Monaco’s Vanderson – described as “a more traditional profile at right-back” – as they weigh up stylistic and tactical fits. Vanderson would arguably offer more defensive discipline, but lacks Frimpong’s attacking numbers and pace.

Photo: IMAGO

Liverpool’s approach appears clear: act early, decisively, and with a view to maintaining their title-winning momentum under Arne Slot.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool supporter’s lens, this Frimpong news is huge. Let’s be honest – losing Trent will sting, emotionally and tactically. He’s been part of the club’s identity for nearly 20 years. But if there’s a way to soften that blow, it’s by bringing in someone like Frimpong.

He’s not a like-for-like replacement, and that’s a good thing. Slot’s system likely won’t use Trent as an inverted full-back like Klopp did. Instead, Frimpong gives you elite pace, technical ability in the final third, and positional flexibility. His numbers are wild – 16 goal involvements from full-back? That’s not normal. That’s a weapon.

Then there’s the fee. In a market where average defenders go for £40m+, getting a 24-year-old Champions League-level right-back for under £30m feels like vintage Liverpool business. Payable in four instalments? It’s almost risk-free.

What’s also exciting is his connection to our Dutch core. Slot, Gravenberch, Gakpo, Van Dijk – this is starting to feel like a calculated cultural integration project. It matters. Frimpong won’t need six months to adapt. He’ll hit the ground running.

This feels like the kind of move that underlines a new era at Anfield. No more reacting late in the window. Slot and the new structure want their business done fast – and if Frimpong walks through the door soon, it’ll send a strong signal that Liverpool mean business again.