Barcelona blow Arsenal & Man Utd out of the water with sensational swap deal

Imre Himmelbauer

Updated: 11 Jun 2024 16:37 BST
3 min read

Barcelona are interested in Jeremie Frimpong, according to Spanish media.

Article continues under the video

The wing-back was one of the standouts at Bayer Leverkusen last season, helping them win the Bundesliga title for the first time in club history. The Dutchman notched a whopping 14 goals and 12 assists from the right flank.

This has, naturally, attracted the attention of other clubs, with Frimpong boasting a release clause worth just €40 million. The likes of Arsenal and Man Utd are long-time admirers, but now Barcelona have entered the frame, according to Sport.

However, Financial Fair Play regulations make a transfer from Frimpong to the Catalans difficult. The situation surrounding the 23-year-old is being followed 'with special attention' by Barcelona's technical staff.

Barring any major surprises, the defender is expected to leave Leverkusen this summer. Hansi Flick, the new coach of Barcelona has suggested the name of the Dutch international to the club's policy makers.

Barca's swap plan

Barcelona have made a low opening offer, which is expected to be rejected. The 23-year-old does not want to make a decision about his future until after the European Championship in Germany. Moreover, due to the current financial situation, Barcelona cannot expend large amounts of money.

In Germany, people will most likely demand a lot of money for Frimpong or for his release clause to be paid in full. The player is still tied to Bayer 04 until 2028 and has an Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) of €41.6m.

However, the Werkself seem to be open to other players being involved in the deal. In this way, Barcelona can reduce the transfer fee and at the same time save money on the salary side of things.

The name of Ansu Fati, among others, is mentioned as an option. Barcelona could loan out the wing attacker, who was at Brighton last season (with little success) or let him leave permanently for an affordable amount thought to be between €10m and €15m.