“I don’t read rumors!" - Liverpool and Real Madrid target breaks silence as Barcelona links emerge
Liverpool and Real Madrid target Jeremie Frimpong has broken his silence on the speculation surrounding his future amid new links to Barcelona. The Bayer Leverkusen defender has said he does not pay attention to rumors despite his name making the rounds this transfer window.
Frimpong was part of the Leverkusen team that went unbeaten in the 2023-24 Bundesliga season and has reportedly drawn interest across Europe.
The Dutch defender is a very viable attacking outlet and helped his side with 14 goals and 12 assists across 47 games. He won the Bundesliga and DFB Pokal with his club for their efforts.
Spanish outlet SPORT reports that the full-back could cost around €40 million and Barcelona are expected to join Liverpool and Real Madrid in the race for his signature.
Frimpong recently mentioned in an interview with ESPN that he does not pay the transfer rumor mill much attention when it involves his future. The Dutch international told the publication:
“It’s just rumors, I don’t read rumors! Rumors are just rumors, anyone can say anything.”
Barcelona are aiming to free up funds so they strengthen their team this summer under new manager Hansi Flick. Real Madrid and Liverpool will remain the favorites to sign the talented defender due to their vastly healthier financial situations.
Real Madrid linked with move for Barcelona and Liverpool target
According to a report from TEAMtalk, Real Madrid is weighing up a €100 million offer for Barcelona and Liverpool target Florian Wirtz. The Bayer Leverkusen star was a revelation under Xabi Alonso in the 2023-24 Bundesliga campaign and is one of the most sought-after assets in football.
The 21-year-old was an integral part of his team's operations last season, helping secure their first-ever double with 18 goals and 20 assists across 49 games.
The aforementioned report suggests that Barcelona's sporting director, Deco, views Wirtz as key to restoring glory to the Catalan club. However, Liverpool are also interested in the German international's services, with former coach Jurgen Klopp and the current staff at Anfield believed to be admirers.
Real Madrid are unlikely to sign Wirtz this summer following statements from the player's father that he will stay in Germany for another season to defend his titles. Los Blancos reported interest and intended fee will nevertheless put him out of reach for many teams in Europe.
Wirtz is currently in action at Euro 2024 with Germany.