Liverpool is reportedly considering a swift exit for Jeremie Frimpong, just a year after his £29.5 million transfer from Bayer Leverkusen, as the club eyes reinforcements at right-back. Frimpong's maiden season at Anfield hasn't met expectations, with his attacking flair overshadowed by concerns over defensive frailties, particularly highlighted in a recent 3-0 loss to Manchester City.
Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown expressed skepticism about Frimpong's long-term prospects at Liverpool, telling Football Insider that the club is beginning to recognize the same defensive shortcomings he's long identified. "He’s okay going forward, but his defensive work leaves a lot to be desired, and when you’re playing in games like the one against Man City that is going to get exposed," Brown stated.
Brown specifically pointed to Frimpong's struggles against Manchester City's Jeremy Doku and Cherki during the match, noting that even commentators like Jamie Carragher were unimpressed. He believes this indicates Frimpong might not meet Liverpool's standard, suggesting the manager's decision to bench him despite a lack of options points to a likely search for a new right-back in the upcoming transfer window.
The situation might also stem from a tactical mismatch. Frimpong excelled as an aggressive wing-back at Leverkusen, where he enjoyed greater attacking freedom and defensive support. However, Liverpool's current system under Andoni Iraola seems to demand more defensive solidity from its full-backs, making Frimpong a challenging fit.
While offloading Frimpong after only a year would appear harsh, the club's alleged planning for another right-back signing indicates his place in the squad is uncertain. Liverpool still appears to be missing the defensive stability provided by Trent Alexander-Arnold.
