Piero Hincapie: Liverpool’s Perfect Defensive Reinforcement?

It’s one of those ones where you get it and don’t dismiss it, but you wonder if any Alonso based link makes it lazy. As the Reds continue their quest for defensive solidity, Piero Hincapie emerges as a beacon of youthful exuberance and potential. The links binding the Ecuadorian centre-back to Liverpool have been buzzing around the rumour mill and there’s plenty to dissect about this prospective transfer. However, there’s a lot to consider with this one

What’s Been Said?

The Mirror referenced Hincapie along with Wirtz and Xabi the other day. The buzz had already intensified when Manuel Sierra, Hincapie’s agent, confirmed Liverpool’s interest last summer. “Liverpool were interested in him, but at that time they chose to invest in the midfield,” Sierra stated, as per the Liverpool Echo. The player’s current focus is Bayer Leverkusen, as echoed by his agent, but with the Reds lurking, a shift in tides come January isn’t off the table.

Key Statistics

At 22, Hincapie boasts an impressive resume, with his market value pegged at €35 million. The left-footed centre-back has made a mark in the Bundesliga, with a total of 23 appearances across all competitions for Leverkusen, carrying an immense weight of expectations on his shoulders. International recognition has also come calling, with the defender making his mark in Ecuador’s national team. Recognise the agent name? It’s the same one who ‘steered’ Moses Caicedo away from Anfield to Stamford Bridge in the summer. That’s possible to be key in all of this.

Compare Him To

Contrasting Hincapie to Liverpool’s defensive stalwart, Virgil van Dijk, presents a challenge. Leverkusen’s three-at-the-back formation showcases different tactical responsibilities compared to Liverpool’s setup. However, Hincapie’s aerial duel win percentage stands at a respectable 62.1%, a figure that, while promising, is dwarfed by Van Dijk’s commanding 82.6%. It underscores a different defensive philosophy at play. Hincapie can also play left-back and in a different set-up comparisons are difficult by nature.

Likelihood and Fee

With a Transfermarkt valuation of €35 million and a contract running until June 2027, Hincapie doesn’t come cheap. The player’s wages, while undisclosed, are expected to align with Leverkusen’s pay structure for key players. Liverpool’s interest could see them ready to meet these demands if they view Hincapie as a long-term asset. If Alonso does make the move then this becomes a real possibility no doubts at all, despite agent issues and history. If however it’s another incumbent at Anfield, it makes it hard to see.