Liverpool Considered New Right-Back as Frimpong Struggles at Anfield
Liverpool reportedly explored the possibility of signing another right-back during the summer transfer window, with Chelsea target Marco Palestra among the players they considered as concerns grew over Jeremie Frimpong’s performances.
The Reds faced a major challenge replacing Trent Alexander-Arnold after his departure to Real Madrid, but Frimpong’s struggles since arriving from Bayer Leverkusen have reportedly been unexpected.
The Netherlands international impressed enormously in Germany, yet he has struggled to reproduce that form at Liverpool. According to reports from The Athletic, the £30 million signing has failed to convince in both positions Liverpool brought him in to cover.
Those concerns apparently encouraged Liverpool to investigate Palestra as a possible alternative before the defender eventually joined Chelsea.
However, Liverpool were unable to complete a deal for another right-back. Their spending priorities in other areas, combined with the need to generate sales and reduce the wage bill, made another major move difficult.
As a result, Frimpong remains Liverpool’s main right-back option heading into the season.
There is still hope that the 25-year-old can turn things around, particularly with new manager Andoni Iraola now in charge. The Spaniard could potentially get more from Frimpong than Arne Slot managed.
Liverpool Also Tried for Chelsea’s Malo Gusto
Liverpool reportedly considered another Chelsea defender, Malo Gusto, as a potential solution at right-back.
Fabrice Hawkins claimed that the Reds made a late attempt to bring Gusto to Anfield on loan. However, the proposal ultimately collapsed because Liverpool wanted a loan deal without a mandatory purchase clause, while Chelsea preferred a permanent transfer.
The failed move further highlights Liverpool’s desire to strengthen at right-back and their apparent concerns about Frimpong’s current level.
Whether Frimpong can rediscover the form that made him such a standout performer at Bayer Leverkusen could become one of the interesting storylines of Liverpool’s season.
