Liverpool make transfer decision on Bayer Leverkusen star | OneFootball

Liverpool have decided not to pursue their long-standing interest in Bayer Leverkusen right-back Jeremie Frimpong, according to journalist Florian Plettenberg.

The ‘unstoppable‘ Dutchman has been a dream target for the Reds for the past couple of years, but Arne Slot’s arrival seems to have influenced their transfer plans.

While Liverpool are impressed with his performances and development, their Dutch manager prefers a traditional full-back in his fluid 4-3-3 system, and his compatriot doesn’t fit the bill.

Frimpong has been repeatedly linked with a move away from Leverkusen, and Liverpool were among a number of European clubs keeping tabs on the pseudo-winger.

However, a move to Anfield seems to be off the table at the moment.

The Netherlands international played a crucial part in Leverkusen’s historic achievement last season.

He notched nine goals and nine assists in 31 appearances as Leverkusen mounted an unprecedented unbeaten streak en route to their first-ever Bundesliga title.

Frimpong notched 14 goals and 12 assists in all competitions as Leverkusen came close to a famous treble but were undone by an Ademola Lookman hat-trick in the Europa League final against Atalanta.

The Dutchman has picked up where he left off this season, racking up two goals and eight assists in 23 games across all competitions as Leverkusen attempt to retain their Bundesliga crown.

He predominantly plays at right wing-back in Xabi Alonso’s 3-4-3 system, offering him the licence to join the attack often without the burden of defensive responsibilities.

Liverpool’s decision to move on from the Dutchman is a smart move as he wouldn’t fit into Slot’s 4-3-3 set-up, but they still need to scour the market for potential right-back targets.

The Reds are struggling to tie down academy graduate Trent Alexander-Arnold to a new deal, and he will be free to sign a pre-contract agreement with foreign clubs once the January transfer window opens.

Real Madrid are already sniffing around the England international, but Liverpool remain fairly confident they can convince him to pledge his allegiance to the club.

Stats from Sofascore.com.