One of Celtic’s biggest transfer masterstrokes in recent memory was signing Jeremie Frimpong from Manchester City. The Dutchman would go on to establish himself as a starter in Neil Lennon’s side as a teenager. Ultimately, his run in Glasgow was not long though, as he would end up joining Bayer Leverkusen for a transfer fee believed to be around £11.5 million just a season-and-a-half later.
Frimpong has been a revelation at Bayer Leverkusen as well and is one of the best young players in the Bundesliga right now. He even earned himself a call up to the Netherlands’ national team for the World Cup.
His form in a Bayer Leverkusen shirt has led to clubs like Chelsea, Manchester United, Real Madrid and several others in Europe being linked with the Dutchman. Of course, that would be great news for Celtic as they are believed to have a sell-on clause included in the deal.
Celtic’s hopes of receiving a windfall in January have been handed a blow though. As reported by Sky Sport, Bayer Leverkusen sporting director, Simon Rolfes, said about Frimpong’s situation:
"“We’re very relaxed about Jeremy. It would be fatal if he didn’t draw the attention of big clubs with his performances. His way of playing is very conspicuous and he’s one for us.“He’s a hugely important player. I told him that his quality will get him his playing time in the tournament. He can decide a game with a single action because he’s incredibly fast and dribbling. We’ll be happy to see him again is with us. Jeremy has a long-term contract at Leverkusen, so we’re very relaxed.”"
Celtic handed blow by Bayer Leverkusen sporting director’s Frimpong comments
Thus, it appears that Bayer Leverkusen are in no hurry to part ways with Frimpong, who is a key part of their team.
Not parting ways with him in January might be a calculated risk on their part as well. At the moment, his transfer value is believed to be in the range of £25 million to £30 million.
Considering his age, potential and the modern transfer market, that is not huge though. But if Frimpong continues to perform at this level for some more time, it could skyrocket.
Of course, if a big offer comes in from an European giant in January itself, Bayer Leverkusen might have a tough time keeping hold of Frimpong.