Manchester United and Manchester City have both shown keen interest in Bayer Leverkusen star Jeremie Frimpong.
United have been closely monitoring his performances at Bayer Leverkusen, where he has excelled in their pursuit of a first Bundesliga title.
Frimpong, aged 23, has a unique £35 million release clause that can only be activated this summer, despite having a contract until 2028.
City views him as a potential long-term replacement for Kyle Walker, who recently mentioned the young player during England duty.
Frimpong, a versatile wing-back who previously played for Celtic before joining Germany in 2021, can operate on either side of the field, with Bayer also utilizing him in midfield.
Having spent over a decade in City’s academy before his Celtic move, Frimpong’s home-grown and academy-trained status is an added financial benefit for Etihad executives.
Both Manchester clubs are aware of each other’s interest in the player, who has contributed 11 goals and 11 assists in Leverkusen’s remarkable season.
United’s new leadership sees Frimpong as an ideal fit in terms of age and transfer fee. He has outperformed forward Marcus Rashford this season, who has scored seven goals and provided two assists.
Despite Leverkusen’s desire to retain him, they will be powerless if either Manchester club triggers the release clause. United, under the new minority ownership of Sir Jim Ratcliffe, are aiming to strengthen their defense in the upcoming season.