Barça's sporting management has had to completely forget about a player who was among Hansi Flick's priority reinforcements for next season. It's no wonder: FC Barcelona, immersed in their rebuilding process with the German coach at the helm, are considering major adjustments to their defensive line, although with certain financial limitations. In this regard, Flick's main target has already decided what his next challenge will be, and it's very far from La Liga.
Meanwhile, Liverpool have been forced to act quickly after the imminent departure of Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid, a loss that leaves a huge gap at right back. That urgency has pushed the English club to speed up their sporting planning. One of the profiles that best fit that need was also of interest to Barça, but the outcome has been very quick and definitive: he already has a new destination.
He chooses Anfield, goodbye Camp Nou
As confirmed in the last few hours, Jeremie Frimpong has said "yes" to Liverpool without even waiting for a call from Barça. The Bayer Leverkusen full-back, one of the season's great revelations in Germany, has made the decision to move to Anfield. He has been convinced by Liverpool's sporting project, as well as the guaranteed starring role he'll have after Alexander-Arnold's departure.
Although Barça had him on their list of possible signings, the player didn't wait and chose the Premier League. The Catalan club, which already has Jules Koundé in that position, couldn't offer him a starring role, something Liverpool did promise him. In addition, the release clause of just €40M made it easier for the 24-year-old full-back to move to the Premier League.
A missed opportunity
Frimpong will be the first signing of the new Liverpool, strengthening a key area for Arne Slot's system. But Barça had positive reports on Frimpong for some time: his speed and ability to get into the box made him an ideal option for the type of full-back Flick is looking for. However, the Catalan club's priorities in other positions, combined with the presence of Koundé and the emergence of Héctor Fort, meant that no immediate decisions were made.
With the signing already completed by Liverpool, Barça lose an affordable opportunity with great potential. Meanwhile, in Leverkusen a general exodus is beginning: Xabi Alonso, Wirtz, Tah, and now Frimpong are leaving a team that made history this season. Frimpong decided to make the leap to a more demanding league, leaving Barça with one less option on the table to strengthen their defense.