Liverpool have made headlines recently after being linked with two standout players from Bayer Leverkusen’s 2023–24 Bundesliga-winning squad: right back Jeremie Frimpong and attacking midfielder Florian Wirtz.
Both were instrumental in Leverkusen’s historic title run last season and followed it up with another impressive campaign, helping the club remain competitive at the top of the league and push perennial German powerhouse Bayern Munich for as long as they could.
With Bayer manager Xabi Alonso also set to depart this summer, a period of transition looms for Leverkusen—raising the question: if Liverpool are to pounce, which of these two dynamic talents would be the better fit for Anfield’s next chapter?
What Frimpong brings to the table:
Liverpool are in clear need of a right back to push Conor Bradley for the starting role following Trent Alexander-Arnold’s imminent departure to Real Madrid, and Jeremie Frimpong could be the ideal candidate for the job.
Much like Trent’s marauding, attack-minded style, Frimpong is renowned for his explosiveness on the ball and his end product in the final third.
While Trent registered a solid nine goal contributions during Liverpool’s title-winning campaign, Frimpong eclipsed that tally with a remarkable 16 goal involvements—nine goals and seven assists—during Bayer Leverkusen’s magical Bundesliga triumph.
Trent’s struggles at the back have also been well-documented, and while Frimpong isn’t a traditional defensive stopper either, the numbers suggest he offers slightly more stability when defending.
During the 2023–24 Bundesliga season, Frimpong posted stronger defensive stats in key areas: 1.9 tackles per 90 (compared to Trent’s 1.3), 1.1 interceptions per game (to Trent’s 0.6), and 4.2 ground duels won per 90 (versus 2.6).
He may not be brought in primarily for his defensive attributes, but he brings more balance to the role.
There’s also the added benefit of continuity and chemistry under new manager Arne Slot, who has already worked successfully with Dutch players like Cody Gakpo and Ryan Gravenberch.
With national team captain Virgil van Dijk also in the dressing room, Frimpong could find the perfect environment to thrive and elevate his game.
Replacing Trent won't be easy—but Frimpong offers a compelling blend of dynamism, creativity, and reliability that could make him Liverpool’s next great full-back.
Why Wirtz could be a better fit:
German national Florian Wirtz has recently emerged as a dark horse candidate for a potential move to Merseyside.
While signing another attacking midfielder might seem redundant given Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai's presence, Wirtz brings a type of versatility and creativity that could further strengthen Liverpool’s talented midfield.
His ability to play across multiple positions—both centrally and on the wing—would provide the Reds with valuable tactical flexibility and depth in the final third.
Unlike Mac Allister, who rarely features out wide, Wirtz has proven himself capable of seamlessly adapting to various roles across the pitch.
This flexibility would give manager Arne Slot important options: whether resting key players like Mac Allister or Szoboszlai by slotting Wirtz into their roles, or allowing wingers such as Cody Gakpo or Luis Díaz a well-deserved break.
Wirtz’s capacity to operate effectively both centrally and on the flanks adds crucial depth and tactical variety to the squad.
Make no mistake either—Wirtz wouldn’t be just a squad player; he could realistically challenge for significant minutes.
Liverpool’s output from wingers opposite Mo Salah this season shows room for improvement. Gakpo (13 league goal contributions) and Díaz (18) were both outpaced by Wirtz, who has posted 22 goal contributions this season, matching his consistent output from last year.
If Liverpool also sign a striker to partner Salah to provide more potency up front, Wirtz’s passing ability stands out.
He’s completed more successful crosses this season (13) than both Gakpo and Díaz (11), showcasing his knack for delivering dangerous balls into the box.
If Liverpool were to sign Wirtz, they could look to do further business—potentially parting ways with Harvey Elliott. While it would be a tough decision, selling Elliott could make sense financially, especially with the midfield at risk of becoming overcrowded.
Final Verdict:
Both players are tantalizing options for the club, but given the strength of Liverpool’s central attack, Frimpong addresses a more immediate need.
While Wirtz’s talents would undoubtedly be welcomed by Kopites, even if the Reds sign only his teammate, Frimpong’s arrival at the Shankly Gates would be considered a home-run signing—especially given his relatively reasonable release clause of €35 million.