Real Madrid is actively searching for a replacement for their long-term injured right-back, Dani Carvajal, who has been sidelined after suffering a cruciate ligament tear.

Dutch-born Ghanaian defender Jeremie Frimpong of Bayer Leverkusen has reportedly emerged as a leading option for the Spanish giants, according to German outlet Bild.

Frimpong, who is under contract with Leverkusen until 2028, was already on Madrid’s radar during the previous spring and summer transfer windows.

However, the Spanish club chose not to activate his €40 million release clause at the time.

Now, with Carvajal’s injury, Real Madrid is keen to reinforce their defense during the winter transfer window, and Frimpong appears to be a top candidate.

Leverkusen holds a strong position in any potential deal this winter, as the release clause is not currently in effect.

This gives the German club full control over the transfer negotiations, with the release clause only coming back into play in the summer of 2025.

As a result, Madrid will need to negotiate a fee with Leverkusen if they want to secure Frimpong’s services before then.

With Carvajal’s absence creating a significant gap in their squad, Real Madrid's pursuit of Frimpong could intensify as the winter transfer window approaches.