Liverpool have secured their first signing of the summer transfer window, with Bayer Leverkusen’s dynamic right-back Jeremie Frimpong set to join the Premier League champions in a £29.5 million deal. The transfer, confirmed by multiple sources including transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, marks a significant step in Liverpool’s preparations for the 2025/26 season as they aim to defend their Premier League title under manager Arne Slot.
The 24-year-old Dutch international, who has agreed a five-year contract with the Reds, is expected to undergo a medical in the coming days before finalizing his move to Anfield. Liverpool triggered Frimpong’s €35 million release clause, with the total fee potentially rising to €40 million including solidarity payments to his former clubs. The deal has moved swiftly, with no negotiations required with Leverkusen due to the release clause, allowing Liverpool to wrap up the transfer before the international break next month.
Frimpong’s arrival comes as a direct response to the confirmed departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is set to join Real Madrid on a free transfer when his contract expires in June. The Netherlands star, known for his electric pace and attacking flair, is seen as the ideal replacement to fill the void left by Alexander-Arnold at right-back. Frimpong’s versatility, having played as a wing-back and even a winger under Xabi Alonso at Leverkusen, makes him a perfect fit for Slot’s dynamic system, which emphasizes speed and verticality down the flanks.
During his time at Bayer Leverkusen, Frimpong established himself as one of Europe’s most productive full-backs, contributing 14 goals and 12 assists in 47 appearances last season as Leverkusen clinched an unbeaten Bundesliga title. This campaign, he has added five goals and 12 assists in 48 appearances, showcasing his offensive prowess. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with Liverpool star Dominik Szoboszlai reportedly liking a social media post about the transfer, hinting at excitement within the squad.
The transfer has also sparked enthusiasm among Liverpool fans, who see Frimpong as a statement signing. Posts on X reflect the buzz, with supporters praising the club’s swift action in the market. One fan wrote, “Frimpong to Liverpool, here we go! Can’t wait to see him tearing it up at Anfield.” The move has been further fueled by Slot’s familiarity with the player, given their shared Dutch roots, although Frimpong reportedly prefers to communicate in English rather than Dutch with his new manager.
Frimpong’s journey to Anfield is a notable milestone in his career. Born in the Netherlands but raised in England, he came through Manchester City’s youth academy before moving to Celtic in 2019 and then Leverkusen in 2021. His 12 caps for the Netherlands underline his growing stature, and his versatility to operate in multiple roles could provide Liverpool with tactical flexibility. However, he will face competition from Conor Bradley, who recently signed a new four-year contract with the club, signaling Liverpool’s intent to bolster their right-back options.
The transfer is part of a broader strategy by Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes to reshape the squad. Reports suggest Liverpool are already eyeing additional signings, with Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez linked as a potential left-back target. Despite missing out on other targets like Dean Huijsen, who joined Real Madrid, Liverpool’s proactive approach in the market signals their ambition to maintain their dominance in the Premier League.
Frimpong’s imminent arrival has also drawn attention to Liverpool’s Dutch contingent, with the likes of Virgil van Dijk, Ryan Gravenberch, and Cody Gakpo expected to help him settle in. The player himself has expressed excitement about the move, reportedly eager to link up with his international teammates at club level. His social media activity, including posts following Leverkusen’s final game of the season against Mainz, hinted at his readiness for a new chapter.