We’re now less than a week away from the start of the new La Liga season, and Barcelona are continuing their search for a full-time right back. We know that Ivan Fresneda is of interest, considering Barca has already made an official approach for the Vallodalid 18-year-old, we also know that Joao Cancelo is the preferred option of Xavi based on his experience. Now a new name is emerging, that of Bayern Leverkusen man Jeremie Frimpong.
According to Barcelona-based journalist Carlos Monfort, there has been contact between the entourage of Frimpong and Barca Sporting Director Deco, and while Cancelo remains the priority for the Catalan club, Frimpong is seen as a viable and cheaper alternative.
The 22-year-old Dutch defender may be the perfect compromise for Xavi and Deco.
Deco’s preference is to sign Ivan Fresneda, with an eye on him being the right-back for the next 10 years. Whereas Xavi has always insisted that he wants a player with experience, preferably in the Champions League.
Jeremie Frimpong ticks the boxes for both. At just 22 years old, his best years are likely ahead of him. Yet he’s made 28 appearances between the Champions League and Europa League, not to mention 69 Bundesliga appearances and 36 Scottish Premier League appearances with Celtic.
Bayern Leverkusen could sell for €30 million
One of the big issues with Cancelo is that Manchester City are looking for a fee in excess of €50 million. Considering the financial situation at Barca, that’s a lot to ask for a right-back who seems to rub people up the wrong way.
Fresneda will likely cost around the €20 million mark, and most of that is based on potential.
Frimpong at €30 million could be the ideal candidate to solidify that RB position, considering Sergino Dest was disappointing on the tour of the USA.
€30 million is still a lot of money, but with the sales of Dembele and Kessie likely to go through any day, and Clement Lenglet drawing considerable interest, if Barca can negotiate a good structure for the payments, it’s possible.