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.

5. Man Utd

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.

4. Arsenal

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.

3. Stay at Bayer Leverkusen

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.

2. Man City

Recent history has taught us that if you are a top player and Manchester City want to buy you, it's unlikely that you will regret going there.

Frimpong spent nine years in the City academy before he joined Celtic, and during his time away from England's north-west has blossomed into one of the very best in his role.

Again, the sticking point is City don't really play with a specialist wing-back, but Guardiola is more likely to drastically switch up his system than Arteta. If the call from the Etihad Stadium comes, Frimpong should consider answering.

1. Real Madrid

Real Madrid are the force to be reckoned with in the transfer market once again.

Their squad already includes Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, Aurelien Tchouameni and Eduardo Camavinga. They are expected to add Kylian Mbappe this summer and Alphonso Davies could follow. Endrick will be on the first plane to Spain once he turns 18.

They're building a squad for the present and future at the Santiago Bernabeu, and it might not only include Frimpong, but one of the men who know him best as well in Alonso.

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