Manchester City have “spoken” to Bayer Leverkusen wingback Jeremie Frimpong about a transfer back to the Etihad, according to HITC Sport.
The Dutchman came through the club’s academy before leaving in 2019, but he is believed to be a target for the Premier League champions ahead of the summer transfer window.
Frimpong has a €40m (£34m) release clause in his contract which makes him a very attractive target: especially considering the form he has shown this season, with 14 goals and 12 assists in all competitions.
However, HITC report that his low price tag has also attracted other Premier League clubs, including Arsenal, Manchester United and Aston Villa.
City appear to be trying to head off interest from rivals by persuading Frimpong into making the move to the Etihad.
The City target has made a decision on his future
It was reported in the German media earlier this week that Frimpong will seek to leave Leverkusen at the end of the season.
Due to the existence of the buyout clause in his contract, the Bundesliga champions don’t really get to have a say on whether he is sold or not, with the player having a lot of power over a potential move.
Frimpong could be targeted for two positions
While the Netherlands international did start his career as a fullback, his attacking qualities mean he is more suited to a position further up the pitch.
Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso has invariably deployed him as a wingback. That is not a role that City have available, with Pep Guardiola usually wedded to four at the back.
With that being the case, Frimpong could well be considered as a solution for the right wing rather than right-back. If he does make the switch to Manchester, it will be interesting to see where Guardiola chooses to use him.
