Reputable outlet rates United’s chances of signing ‘special’ target as they risk missing release clause deadline

Manchester United have long been linked with a move for attack-minded fullback Jeremie Frimpong, whose £34 million release clause at Bayer Leverkusen expires this week.

Despite being interested in the 23-year-old since Erik ten Hag took the reins at Old Trafford, United have never taken the steps to formalise their pursuit by tabling a bid. They did hold talks with his agent back in April 2023, but nothing came of it – perhaps due to the club’s failure to offload Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

It’s thought that any deal for Frimpong, whom Xabi Alonso once hailed as a ‘special’ talent, largely hinges on whether Wan-Bissaka leaves. He has been attracting interest of his own from the likes of West Ham and Galatasaray since the window opened, although nothing has materialised as of yet.

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Ten Hag’s preference for Diogo Dalot on the right-hand side of defence has been evident over the past two seasons. That being said, Wan-Bissaka was granted increased game time in 2023/2024 as the pair took turns deputising for sidelined duo Tyrell Malacia and Luke Shaw.

When normal service resumes next term, the ex-Crystal Palace man may have to settle for a more rotational role.

German outlet rates Frimpong’s chances of a summer transfer

Nevertheless, it looks as though United will disregard Frimpong’s release clause, given that they haven’t been actively pursuing the Dutchman since April this year.

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BILD has rated his likelihood of leaving Leverkusen this summer following their emphatic invincible Bundesliga campaign, predicting there’s a 50 per cent chance he could stay put or embark on a new venture elsewhere.