Liverpool are making progress in discussions with Bayer Leverkusen’s right-back Jeremie Frimpong, with numerous reports indicating that a deal is nearing finalization.

As Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to leave on a free transfer this summer, likely heading to Real Madrid, Liverpool is in need of defensive reinforcements. Although home-grown Conor Bradley is expected to take on more responsibilities next season, the speculation surrounding interest in Frimpong has intensified recently.

Florian Plettenberg initially reported that Liverpool is “seriously pursuing” Frimpong, whose release clause of between €35m-€40m (£29.4m-£33.6m) makes the deal relatively straightforward to finalize.

Advanced talks have been held with the 24-year-old Dutchman, who came through the Manchester City youth academy but departed for Celtic in 2019 without ever making a senior appearance for Pep Guardiola’s side.

Further detail was provided by Fabrizio Romano, who confirmed Frimpong is keen to make the move to Liverpool this summer.

kicker provide most of the confidence over this deal. Frimpong is said to be “on the verge” of heading to Anfield as a five-year contract is just a few minor details away from being agreed. It is even suggested that a full agreement may already have been reached.

While Frimpong’s release clause means Leverkusen have little say in the matter anyway, they are believed to be keen to sell the Dutch wing-back after the departure of manager Xabi Alonso, whose 3-4-2-1 formation was the perfect system for him.

Alonso’s replacement, expected to be former Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag after Gianluca Di Marzio reported on Cesc Fabregas’ decision to decline a move to the BayArena, favours a four-man defence for which Frimpong is not seen as a natural fit.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot also uses a back four but could afford Frimpong the same freedom given to Alexander-Arnold, who regularly roamed around the field to get involved in attack.