Liverpool’s Summer Shake-Up: What Jeremie Frimpong’s Arrival Could Mean for Ben Doak and More

With the summer transfer window looming, Liverpool’s early moves are already making waves. One of the most talked-about potential arrivals is Jeremie Frimpong—a dynamic, attack-minded right-back whose skillset extends far beyond defensive duties.

Frimpong’s imminent move is not just about replacing Trent Alexander-Arnold, who looks set to leave Merseyside. It’s also about evolving how Arne Slot envisions his squad for the 2025/26 campaign. Having just guided Liverpool to their first Premier League title since 2020, Slot’s intention to build on that success is clear—and Frimpong might be a major part of that evolution.

The Dutch international, known for his blistering pace and attacking instincts, could be deployed further upfield—potentially reshaping Liverpool’s forward dynamics. As reported by James Pearce on the Walk On podcast:

“The awkward thing for [Ben Doak] in terms of his Liverpool prospects is with Salah signing a new contract and if Frimpong comes in, there’s a possibility of playing him further up the pitch at times. So, where’s Doak going to fit in? It’s difficult at the minute to see the pathway for him.”

Doak’s Future Hangs in the Balance

For 18-year-old Ben Doak, Frimpong’s arrival could spell trouble. Once hailed as a future first-teamer, Doak now finds his progression hindered not only by senior players like Mohamed Salah but now also by Frimpong’s ability to operate in wide positions.

Pearce added further clarity on the situation, revealing that Doak was the subject of serious interest back in January:

“Liverpool turned down decent-ish money for Ben Doak in January. £15m, £16m they turned down. They value him at about double that.”

This suggests Liverpool are open to cashing in—should the right offer come along. A £30m sale, once deemed ambitious, now feels possible if the market aligns.

Assessing the Pathways for Bajcetic and Danns

While Doak’s road may be narrowing, other academy talents like Jayden Danns and Stefan Bajcetic appear to have a more hopeful trajectory.

“Danns they’ve still got big hopes for,” Pearce explained. “It was a shame that injury wrecked his season.” A loan spell, rather than a permanent departure, seems most likely for the teenage striker.

Bajcetic, on the other hand, is a player Slot reportedly wants to evaluate personally in pre-season.

“The feedback Liverpool have had on Bajcetic since he’s been there has been really positive,” said Pearce. “Liverpool don’t really have a back-up for Gravenberch and maybe Bajcetic could carry out that role.”

That suggests the young Spaniard could play a supporting part in Slot’s midfield rotation—a critical role in a squad that will compete on multiple fronts next season.

Slot’s Strategy Clear: Versatility, Depth, and Ruthless Decisions

Arne Slot’s approach is becoming increasingly apparent: build a squad with tactical fluidity, positional versatility, and fierce internal competition. The potential signing of Frimpong underscores this strategy.

It’s a decision that strengthens Liverpool’s overall profile—but comes at a cost. Promising youngsters may find their paths blocked, and sentiment will take a back seat to squad optimisation.

Pearce summed it up concisely:

“I think a lot will depend on pre-season and on what kind of offers are forthcoming in terms of loans and possible permanents.”

Frimpong is not just another full-back—he’s a tactical weapon. Whether that pushes Ben Doak out of Anfield or challenges him to raise his game remains to be seen.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

It’s hard not to sympathise with Ben Doak in this scenario. At one point, he was seen as a future gem—energetic, fearless, and brimming with potential. But football is ruthless, and Arne Slot has clearly signalled that merit and versatility will trump promise.

Jeremie Frimpong is an electric addition—no doubt. But his dual-role capability not only boosts competition but complicates the future for young attackers. Liverpool fans have seen it before: a talent deemed surplus despite showing promise, simply because the squad’s needs evolved.

While the idea of Doak being sold for £30m sounds financially appealing, many supporters will be uneasy. Is this another Rhian Brewster moment? High ceiling, big price tag, but no guarantee he fulfils his potential elsewhere—or worse, thrives and Liverpool regret letting him go.

As for Bajcetic and Danns, fans will likely be encouraged by the club’s handling. Slot appears willing to give them a shot—at least during pre-season. That kind of pragmatism could help balance short-term success with long-term squad sustainability.

Ultimately, Frimpong’s arrival is a power move. But it also brings risk—particularly if it sidelines the very academy stars fans love to see rise through the ranks.