Liverpool are intensifying their efforts to secure their first signing of the summer transfer window, with Bayer Leverkusen’s Piero Hincapié emerging as a key target.
Despite earlier setbacks in their pursuit of a new midfielder, the Reds have shifted their focus to strengthening their defense, identifying the 22-year-old Ecuadorian center-back as a priority addition.
Liverpool’s interest in Hincapié has been brewing for some time, with the club having inquired about his availability last January.
Latest on Liverpool interest in Piero Hincapie
According to Fichajes, Atlético Madrid recently entered the race for Hincapié, but Liverpool are reportedly in a decisive position and eager to finalize the deal before the transfer window closes next week.
Leverkusen, however, set a steep asking price of €55 million (£47m), deterring any immediate action. Since then, the young defender’s stock has only risen, making him an even more attractive prospect for top European clubs.
The competition is fierce, with Tottenham Hotspur also long-standing admirers of the Ecuadorian, having made a bid of €25 million (£21m) earlier this year. However, that offer fell short, and Hincapié has since become even more integral to Leverkusen’s plans.
Leverkusen’s manager, Xabi Alonso, is determined to keep hold of the talented defender. The former Liverpool midfielder sees Hincapié as a crucial part of his squad, particularly after leading the team to their first-ever Bundesliga title last season, finishing an impressive 17 points clear of second place.
Alonso is reportedly doing everything in his power to prevent Hincapié’s departure, but financial realities may force the club to consider selling if Liverpool meets their valuation.
With the clock ticking on the summer transfer window, Liverpool fans will be watching closely to see if the club can land their top defensive target and bolster their squad ahead of the new season.
