Real Madrid are one of the biggest clubs in the world and they have been very clever with the transfer business over the years. The Los Blancos target young players or the players who have established themselves in some other top club at a young age. They stick along with their players for years and years and that has produced a lot of results.
The Spanish giants are likely to make a few changes in one or two seasons. Midfield veterans, Kroos and Modric, are nearing the end of their careers. Some other players are likely to leave or Madrid might release them once their contracts are over. The likes of Dani Carvajal have been a long-servant at the club and the Los Blancos have already started to look for his replacement. The Spaniard has suffered a few injuries and Madrid can’t afford to keep players who are regularly getting injured.
Real Madrid have a transfer target in the form of Bayer Leverkusen’s high-flying full-back, Jeremie Frimpong. The 23-year-old has seen tremendous growth under Xabi Alonso and here is why Madrid are attracted to sign him in the future.
Threat from the right side
Jeremie Frimpong likes to get involved in the attack more than making defensive actions. He has spent most of his time playing as a wing-back and can also play as a right midfielder. The Dutch international has made 22 appearances in all competitions for Leverkusen this season and 16 came in the Bundesliga.
Excellence in the attack
Jeremie Frimpong was exceptional last season and scored nine goals in 49 games played across all competitions. Playing as a wing-back has allowed the Dutchman to get to the end of crosses and score goals. He averaged 1.12 shots per 90 minutes and had a 44% accuracy rate. Most of his goals were tap-ins on the far post.
This season, Frimpong has already netted seven goals in all competitions. His accuracy has seen a tremendous improvement as the player has managed to hit 60% of his shots on target. This season, the Dutchman has found more space inside the six-yard box and converted most of his opportunities.
After managing 10 assists last season, Frimpong already has nine in the current season. Of these nine, six came in the Bundesliga. The above viz shows that Frimpong delivers balls around the penalty spot. He attempts 3.7 passes to the penalty box per 90 minutes and 50% have found a teammate.
The above viz highlights a full-back’s offensive contribution, particularly their involvement in moves leading to shots and their ball-carrying capabilities up the field. Frimpong has made a lot of carries but has been a bit inconsistent with the opportunities that he creates.
Jeremie Frimpong is attracting attention from big clubs across Europe. He lacks a bit of defensive ability and that could be a concern. However, his contributions in attack make him a threat and Madrid are likely to go for him in the summer.
Visuals via TFA data viz engine
