Barcelona and Real Madrid derail Man Utd transfer hopes for ex-Man City star

Barcelona and Real Madrid could emerge as frontrunners to sign Jeremie Frimpong this summer after reports that the Bayer Leverkusen defender could be the subject of a tug-of-war by the Spanish giants.

Frimpong has established himself as one of the stand-out attack wing backs in Europe for Leverkusen since joining the club for €11 million in 2021.

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The 24-year-old was instrumental in securing Leverkusen’s first ever Bundesliga title last season, providing nine goals and seven assists down the right flank and he has continued his form with seven goal contributions this season too.

Frimpong’s attacking prowess has attracted interest from the likes of Manchester United and former club and Manchester City, who are hoping to tempt the Dutchman back to England.

According to Fichajes, Frimpong is ready to make the jump to a major European side, however a move to La Liga may be the most likely outcome if he does indeed leave Leverkusen.

Frimpong still has three years remaining on his contract but it is understood to contain a release clause of €40 million and the price point, combined with the player’s desire for a new challenge, could pave way for a move to one of La Liga’s heavyweights this summer.

English and Spanish rivals set to battle it out for Frimpong

Real are expecting to sign Trent Alexander-Arnold on a free transfer as their ideal right-back choice but they could turn to Frimpong if the England international renews his contract with Liverpool, with his current deal set to expire this summer.

Barcelona, meanwhile, are considering an upgrade on Jules Kounde at right-back, with manager Hansi Flick keen to add a new dimension to his wing-back options.

However, having come through Man City’s academy before leaving for Celtic in 2019, Frimpong could be open to a return to the Premier League if an approach is made for him.

City will likely be in the market for a new right-back this summer and could turn to Frimpong, while Man Utd are also looking to strengthen in the role, although their top target is believed to be Sporting Lisbon youngster Geovany Quenda.