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According to Samuel Luckhurst, Manchester United is keeping tabs on Bayer Leverkusen’s defensive duo Jeremie Frimpong and Edmond Tapsoba as part of their scouting agenda, given Leverkusen’s outstanding performance in the Bundesliga this season.
The club has remained undefeated, with Tapsoba, 25, playing a pivotal role in their recent 3-0 triumph over Bayern Munich, and Frimpong, 23, coming off the bench to add to the scoreline.
United’s interest in Frimpong dates back to last year, with initial talks taking place with his representatives. He was considered a summer 2023 target, but plans were put on hold due to the resurgence of Aaron Wan-Bissaka and the contract extension of Diogo Dalot, both right-backs. Despite this, Frimpong has committed his future to Leverkusen until 2028, prompting United to keep an eye out for a new right-back, especially as Wan-Bissaka’s contract nears its end next year.
With Wan-Bissaka sidelined due to a leg injury for the recent games and Dalot securing his spot as the first-choice right-back, United’s need for reinforcements in that position appears imminent. Frimpong has made his mark internationally, earning a cap for the Netherlands, while Tapsoba has been representing Burkina Faso, including appearances at the Africa Cup of Nations.
The pursuit of a youthful and dynamic center-back leads United to Tapsoba, who, like Frimpong, is locked in with Leverkusen until 2028. This search for fresh defensive talent is underscored by the aging of United’s current defensive line-up, with Jonny Evans, Raphael Varane, Harry Maguire, and Victor Lindelof all approaching or surpassing the 30-year mark. Lindelof’s recent contract extension, similar to Wan-Bissaka’s, is seen as a move to protect his market value ahead of a potential summer transfer. Meanwhile, contracts for Varane and Evans are set to expire in June.
Leverkusen’s defensive prowess is highlighted by their record of the fewest goals conceded in the Bundesliga, with just 14 goals allowed in 21 games, positioning them as strong contenders for the league title, ahead of traditional powerhouse Bayern Munich.
