Bayer Leverkusen defender Jeremie Frimpong has been linked with a move to Arsenal during the January transfer window.
Arsenal have reportedly identified Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong as a major transfer target.
The right-back has emerged as one of the standout full-backs across European football, leading to growing speculation around his future. In 22 appearances across all competitions, Frimpong has registered seven goals and 10 assists, following on from his impressive total of 20 goal contributions in the previous campaign.
Arsenal have been touted with an interest in the Netherlands international but are claimed to face competition from Aston Villa for the 23-year-old. In a further twist, Frimpong’s contract is said to hold a release clause of €40 million (£34 million), which becomes active in the summer window, but the Gunners may look to beat their rivals to his signature in January.
Arsenal are claimed to be on the verge of a deal to sign Jeremie Frimpong.
A report from Teamtalk has suggested that the Gunners are ‘closing in’ on a move for Frimpong. The full-back’s contract is said to hold a €40m (£34m) release clause, which becomes active in the summer.
It is suggested that Arsenal have agreed to meet his release clause. While that would mean pushing the transfer back until the end of the season, a successful deal means that Arsenal may well have fought off reported competition from the likes of Villa and Manchester United.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has refused to rule out new signings in the January transfer window.
The Reds have been touted with interest in players across several positions as they possibly look to strengthen their squad for a title push. Concerns over Arsenal’s full-back options have led to links with Frimpong. Arteta has already made his stance clear regarding any January signings.
“Unfortunately, Jurrien has a very long-term injury. He’s doing really well, but he’s still far from training with the team. It’s what we have, with Tomiyasu having to leave,” Arteta explained. “We’re open to the transfer market, but the emphasis is on making the most of the players we have.”
Arsenal ‘chasing’ Frimpong deal
Arsenal could have a secret weapon in their reported pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen full-back Jeremie Frimpong. A report from German outlet Bild has stated that Mikel Arteta’s side is ‘chasing’ a move for the Netherlands international but is not the only club ‘watching’ the 23-year-old.
Given Leverkusen’s budding title push, though, journalist Fabrizio Romano has explained that the German side has ‘no intention’ of selling Frimpong this month. In terms of Arsenal’s interest in the full-back, they are said to be battling Unai Emery’s Villa side to sign the attack-minded defender.
However, the Gunners could have a potential secret weapon in the form of Frimpong’s current teammate and ex-Gunner Granit Xhaka.