Barcelona on the verge of losing top defensive target as Liverpool begin negotiations | OneFootball

According to a report from SPORT, Liverpool have surged ahead of Barcelona in the pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen right-back Jeremie Frimpong.

In fact, it has come to light that the Premier League club is not just interested, they are already in advanced talks with the Dutch defender over a summer transfer.

Barcelona have had their eye on Frimpong since last season. The 24-year-old has been on the club’s radar as a long-term solution for the right-back position, an area that has caused problems in recent years.

In fact, Frimpong has also made it clear that he wants to leave the Bundesliga, making a switch to La Liga a possibility. However, while Barça remain interested, their financial limitations are holding them back once again.

Liverpool move fast as Barcelona struggle financially

While Barça continue to assess their options, Liverpool are moving quickly. Multiple German sources confirm that talks are already underway between the English club’s board and Frimpong’s representatives.

Barcelona are set to miss out on Jeremie Frimpong. (Photo by Daniel Kopatsch/Getty Images)

With Trent Alexander-Arnold set to join Real Madrid once the season ends, Liverpool are eager to finalise a deal for Frimpong and secure their next starting right-back.

The deal itself is fairly straightforward. Bayer Leverkusen have made it clear for months that Frimpong will only leave if his release clause, believed to be around £30 million, is met.

That figure is manageable for Liverpool, who appear ready to pay it. In contrast, Barcelona’s financial troubles mean they are not in a position to match the offer right now.

At one point, Frimpong seemed open to joining Barcelona and playing in La Liga. But as time passed, the club’s lack of funds and their focus on other priorities allowed Liverpool to take the lead.

With Jules Kounde now settled into the right-back role and no immediate funds available, Barcelona’s move for Frimpong looks unlikely to happen this summer.