Jeremie Frimpong’s potential destinations – ranked

Bayer Leverkusen have upset the applecart this season in some style. As is always the case with these tales, the stars of the story are being linked with moves away.

The latest name in the transfer gossip column is wing-back Jeremie Frimpong, whose contract contains a relatively cheap €40m release clause.

A report from BILD claims four clubs in particular are eyeing a move for the Netherlands international. But where would be best for him to land?

Let’s assess Frimpong’s options.

Even if Manchester United’s season hadn’t spectacularly imploded, they would still probably be bottom of this list.

The Red Devils’ squad is a mixed bag of visions that needs serious overhaul. In terms of age profile, Frimpong would fit the bill, but this is the type of signing United historically have failed to embed correctly.

Frimpong is a rather specialist wing-back, not a traditional full-back. It would take a strong coach to sell him the vision of a move without the Red Devils changing formation – which, we should add, isn’t out of the question due to the uncertainty around Erik ten Hag’s future.

But United should not even be a consideration for Frimpong right now. It’s not worth getting ripped into on Monday Night Football every week just because you’re in the wrong environment.

If Arsenal follow up on their interest in Frimpong, then it’ll likely be because Mikel Arteta has another tactical switch up his sleeve.

The right-back role firmly belongs to Ben White, and unless he inconspicuously falls into a black hole, he’s not going to lose it.

Bringing in Frimpong would suggest that Arteta is planning to mix up his setup or that he’s just desperate to bring in a profile he doesn’t already have. Either way, it’s unlikely the Dutchman would start when he could get minutes elsewhere.

Let’s just play devil’s advocate for a second – why does Frimpong need to leave Leverkusen?

Xabi Alonso has confirmed he is staying next season and other star players could follow suit. If Leverkusen do end this campaign with an unbeaten treble (!!!!!!), then they should fancy their chances of a Champions League push as well as a successful defence of their Bundesliga title.

Frimpong is still only 23. He doesn’t need to rush into a bad move.