Liverpool are actively looking for defensive reinforcements forward of the summer season switch window, with Bayer Leverkusen’s Piero Hincapie rising as a major goal.
With Virgil van Dijk’s contract state of affairs unresolved and uncertainty surrounding Ibrahima Konaté’s future, the Reds are getting ready for potential defensive modifications.
A number of centre-backs have been linked with a transfer to Anfield, together with Bournemouth’s Spanish prospect Dean Huijsen, whose impending departure was lately confirmed by teammate Justin Kluivert.
Nevertheless, one title that continues to resurface is Hincapie, a long-term goal for Liverpool. The membership reportedly pursued him final summer season and stay excited about securing his providers.
In line with a report from Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg and Theresa Otten, Liverpool have an interest within the Ecuadorian worldwide, who’s beneath contract with Bayer Leverkusen till 2029.
The competitors for his signature is fierce, with Spanish giants Actual Madrid additionally exhibiting robust curiosity.
Valued at roughly €50 million, the 23-year-old is thought to be certainly one of Europe’s most promising defenders.
What Xabi Alonso has mentioned about Liverpool goal Hincapie
Hincapie’s journey to the highest has been exceptional. He started his profession in Ecuador, progressing by way of native academies earlier than becoming a member of Independiente del Valle in 2016.
After making his first-team breakthrough in 2019, he caught the eye of Argentine membership Talleres, who signed him in 2020.
His rise continued when he moved to Europe only a 12 months later, becoming a member of Bayer Leverkusen in August 2021. Hincapie rapidly made an affect, scoring his first objective in a Europa League conflict towards Celtic and establishing himself as a key determine within the squad.
His contributions had been pivotal in Leverkusen’s historic Bundesliga title triumph within the 2023-24 season, additional solidifying his status as a top-tier defender.
This season, he has maintained his consistency, that includes in 37 matches throughout all competitions whereas registering three targets and two assists.
Leverkusen supervisor Xabi Alonso has publicly praised Hincapie, describing him as a ‘very trendy defender’ able to taking part in in a number of positions.
He mentioned (as quoted by the Categorical):
“I believe he’s a really trendy defender, he can play in several positions. He’s served us as a full-back in latest video games however has additionally been the left centre-back after we’ve performed with a again three.
“He’s aggressive, is making higher choices when he has the ball, backs himself extra to play diagonal passes and get in behind. It motivates me to have a participant along with his potential and need as a result of he helps you and also you assist him. He’s an amazing participant.”
Able to taking part in as each a centre-back and a left-back, Hincapié will supply the flexibility that Liverpool are in search of. His mix of aggressive but composed defending and tactical consciousness makes him a really perfect match for Arne Slot’s system.
If Liverpool handle to fend off competitors from Madrid, securing Hincapié could possibly be a vital step in reshaping their defensive future.
