Man Utd face competition from Newcastle for Wan-Bissaka replacement Ten Hag likes
Newcastle have reportedly joined the race for long-term Man Utd target, Jeremie Frimpong, who plays for Bayer Leverkusen.
Erik ten Hag is thought to be a big admirer of the talented 22-year-old right-back who has impressed during his time in the Bundesliga.
Although Diogo Dalot has been in excellent form for the Red Devils, he is yet to agree a new contract, which only increases the demand for a new right-back. Fabrizio Romano recently confirmed talks with Dalot are due to continue in short order.
However, it has now been revealed by reputed journalist Ben Jacobs that Newcastle are also interested in a deal for Dutch international Frimpong.
Indeed, Frimpong is considered as one of the most exciting attacking full-backs in Europe at the moment, so it will be interesting to see who comes out o top in the race for him.
Speaking to CaughtOffside, Jacobs said: “There are a few full-backs to keep an eye on [this summer]. Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong is being tracked by Newcastle and Manchester United, for example.”
Newcastle, Man Utd could both battle for Frimpong
A new right-back seems to be a priority for Ten Hag. Aaron Wan-Bissaka looked likely to leave in January, so it’s not clear whether he trusts him, while Diogo Dalot could do with some quality competition.
However, Dalot’s injury issues gave Wan-Bissaka a chance to prove his quality after the World Cup break and in fairness, he has put in some decent performances recently.
But, signing Frimpong may be an opportunity too good to miss for United. In January, Bayer Leverkusen’s director of sport Simon Rolfes admitted ‘there will be exits’ from the club at the end of the season, with Frimpong one of the most likely to leave.
But, the Red Devils will face competition from Premier League rivals Newcastle for Frimpong, who, according to Jacobs, are also interested in securing his signature.
Their current right-back Kieran Trippier is one of Eddie Howe’s most important players, but given he is already 32, he is not really a long-term option.
The Magpies did sign Harrison Ashby from West Ham in January, though he lacks top flight experience.
With that in mind, 22-year-old Frimpong would represent an excellent addition for Newcastle.
This season, the defender has made 21 league appearances for Leverkusen, scoring five goals, making three assists and helping his team to five clean sheets so far.
A dynamic, attacking full-back, Frimpong is solid in defence, but also has the energy to get into the final third and supply effective crosses to his teammates.
According to Transfermarkt, the Dutchman could be available for £25m in the summer, but with two wealthy Premier League clubs circling, his ultimate price tag could end up being far higher.
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