Arsenal 'want to sign Jeremie Frimpong' despite Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman insisting he 'can't defend'

Arsenal are interested in signing Bayer Leverkusen right-back Jeremie Frimpong, according to reports.

The Gunners are currently eight points clear at the top of the Premier League table, and in pole position to win their first domestic title for the first time since 2004.

However, Mikel Arteta is already preparing for next season's busy European schedule, with a Champions League finish all but guaranteed.

The Spaniard is allegedly keen to add a full-back to his ranks this summer, with Arsenal's back line currently stretched to its limit.

An injury to Takehiro Tomiyasu has left Ben White as the club's only senior right-back, whilst left-back Kieran Tierney may seek pastures new at the end of the season.

Real Valladolid right-back Ivan Fresneda has been heavily linked with a move to the Emirates. Although they are likely to face competition, with a whole host of European clubs expected to battle it out for the teenager's signature this summer.

Frimpong to Arsenal?

Meanwhile, Frimpong has been earmarked as a potential addition, according to Give Me Sport. Whilst the report states that Ridle Baku of Wolsburg is also on Arteta's radar.

In addition, Frimpong is the subject of interest from Premier League rivals Manchester United.

However, Gunners' fans may be left concerned by Ronald Koeman's recent comments, which questioned the player's defensive capabilities.

Frimpong went to the World Cup in Qatar. But Koeman, who replaced Louis Van Gaal as Netherlands boss in January, left the defender out of his squad for the upcoming Euro 2024 qualifiers against France and Gibraltar.

Explaining his absence, Koeman revealed the 22-year-old is "unable to defend well" and plays as a right-winger.

"No Frimpong? This is because of the system that we play in," Koeman said, when explaining his squad selection.

"He plays almost as a right winger. My right back should be able to defend well in the first place and I have my doubts about that."

Topics: Arsenal, Transfers, Football, Mikel Arteta, Bayer Leverkusen

Joe Adams

Joe is a Journalist for SPORTbible with a primary focus on football. He has previously covered a number of other sports including boxing, rugby and F1. Wishes he was born left-footed.

@joeadamsjourno