Liverpool’s Interest in Hincapié: Assessing the Bundesliga Ace’s Suitability for the Premier League
Liverpool have been linked with a late move for Bayer Leverkusen’s standout defender Piero Hincapié. According to Diario Expreso, the 22-year-old Ecuadorian is “wanted” by clubs like Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur, and Atletico Madrid. As the transfer window edges closer to its deadline, Hincapié’s future remains undecided. Given Liverpool’s defensive needs and the ongoing search for a versatile left-footed centre-back, could Hincapié be the answer?
What’s Been Said
Reports from Diario Expreso state that Piero Hincapié is being monitored by several top clubs, including Liverpool, Tottenham, and Atletico Madrid. The defender was pivotal in Bayer Leverkusen’s successful campaign last season, helping the German side to a title-winning season with 43 appearances and contributing to 20 clean sheets. However, Hincapié is reportedly “undecided” about his future with Leverkusen and is evaluating his options. The article indicates that Leverkusen would be willing to consider offers in the region of £50 million.
Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso is keen to retain the Ecuadorian international, but the club’s financial interests might lead them to entertain a significant bid. Hincapié’s ability to cover both centre-back and left-back positions makes him an attractive prospect for Liverpool, who have concerns and players potentially departing in these areas.
The Key Stats
Piero Hincapié’s 2023/24 season was nothing short of impressive. The 22-year-old centre-back featured in 43 matches across all competitions, logging 2,617 minutes, with 1 goal and 3 assists to his name. His defensive contribution is highlighted by the 20 clean sheets Leverkusen achieved during the season. A versatile player, Hincapié also offers international experience, having earned 37 caps and scored 2 goals for Ecuador.
His ability to operate on the left side of the defence adds much-needed flexibility to any squad. Hincapié’s blend of speed, ball progression, and tackling ability positions him as a modern defender suited for the Premier League’s physical and fast-paced nature. Notably, Hincapié has been on Liverpool’s radar since last summer, showing that the interest isn’t new.
Compare To
As a hybrid type player, comparisons between Hincapié and Manchester City’s Nathan Aké are natural, considering both players offer the dual role of covering left-back and centre-back positions. Statistically, Hincapié excels in challenges with a 76.5% tackle success rate compared to Aké’s 65.0%. However, where Hincapié falls short is in aerial duels (57.1% compared to 62.2% for Ake), an area Liverpool’s current centre-backs dominate. His aerial duel success rate is considerably lower than Aké’s, a crucial point of concern for Liverpool, especially if Joe Gomez and Sepp van den Berg leave the squad.
If Hincapié were to arrive, you would have questions around his aerial deficiencies.
With Liverpool’s current defensive options, including Van Dijk and Konaté, known for their aerial prowess, integrating Hincapié would require careful tactical consideration. Also, if he is to be a left-back predominantly then surely one of Robertson or Tsimikas would have to depart first.
Likelihood and Fee
Hincapié’s current market valuation, as per Transfermarkt, stands at €40 million (£34.5 million). However, with Leverkusen reportedly holding out for £50 million, the fee might be a sticking point. The Ecuadorian defender signed a contract extension last year, keeping him tied to Leverkusen until 2027, giving the German club significant leverage in negotiations. Additionally, Hincapié’s representative is the same agent responsible for the failed Moisés Caicedo transfer to Liverpool, which seems a huge red flag.
While Hincapié’s desire to consider new challenges is evident, whether Liverpool are prepared to meet the asking price remains questionable. Given the questions around certain aspects, this deal, though not impossible, feels unlikely unless the Reds and Richard Hughes veer from their normal path. For Liverpool, the equation will be whether they’re willing to gamble on a young defender with promise, but with areas in need of refinement. Not impossible, but hard to see.
