Manchester City linked with a move to sign Real Madrid defensive target as Pep Guardiola plots squad revamp: Reports
Manchester City are interested in signing Bayer Leverkusen defender Jeremie Frimpong, according to BBC Sport. Frimpong has also been linked with Real Madrid
Frimpong, 23, is primarily a right-back, who can also play in a wingback's role as well as a right winger. Although Manchester City currently have Kyle Walker in that position, Guardiola is keen on exploring other options ahead of a potential squad overhaul.
The Dutchman has also been linked with Real Madrid, with the Spanish club keen on bringing him on board in January itself. With Eder Militao's long-term injury, Los Blancos' resources at the back seem depleted. Jesus Vallejo is the only fit senior centre-back in the squad alongside Antonio Rudiger. Frimpong, however, is seen as a natural replacement for the injured Dani Carvajal.
Having been with Leverkusen since 2021, Frimpong has made 158 appearances for the club and found the net on 26 occasions. Interestingly, he is a former Manchester City youth player, who came through the ranks before moving to Scotland to make his senior debut for Celtic.
Manager Pep Guardiola is also keen on bringing Frimpong's compatriot Sepp van den Berg to the Etihad, as per the aforementioned report. Van den Berg plays for Brentford in the Premier League and has made nine appearances in the heart of the defense this season.
The former Liverpool player went to London in the 2024 summer transfer window, and has been closely monitored by Guardiola, who wants defensive reinforcements.
Real Madrid have been hit with a lot of injuries this season
As mentioned above, Real Madrid have been hit with a lot of injuries this season. Alongside Militao and Carvajal, David Alaba too has been ruled out till the latter half of November. Manager Carlo Ancelotti is also under immense pressure after losing to Barcelona and AC Milan recently.
Los Blancos are placed second in the LaLiga table at the moment with 27 points, six behind leaders Barcelona. Madrid return to action in the league on 24 November against Leganes.
They have been dismal in the UEFA Champions League as well. Los Blancos are currently placed 18th with two wins and as many defeats in the continental competition.