According to a report from Liverpool Echo, Liverpool are reportedly engaged in ‘advanced negotiations’ with Bayer Leverkusen’s defender Piero Hincapie. The Ecuadorian international had previously been linked with Jurgen Klopp’s squad during the summer transfer window. However, whether this reported interest progresses into a more concrete deal in January remains uncertain.
Hincapie’s Remarkable Displays in the Bundesliga Last Season
Piero Hincapie enjoyed a breakthrough campaign with Bayer Leverkusen in the 2022-23 season. The 20-year-old defender made a notable impact, contributing one goal and one assist in 43 appearances, an impressive 40 of which he started, across all competitions.
Hincapie, hailing from Ecuador, proved to be a formidable defensive presence in the backline, averaging 1.7 tackles, 1.0 interceptions, and 2.5 clearances per game in the Bundesliga.
Moreover, he displayed efficiency in his ball distribution from the defence, boasting an 83.2% pass completion rate in the German top flight (statistics sourced from whoscored).
Should Klopp Bring Him To Liverpool In January?
Hincapie is a promising and youthful defender with a bright future on the horizon. He possesses strength, speed, and a keen sense of anticipation on the field, making him a versatile player capable of operating in various positions—attributes that align with Jurgen Klopp’s preferences.
Should the Ecuadorian talent make the move, it would augment Liverpool’s defensive positions. Currently, the Reds rely on the likes of Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate, Joe Gomez, and Joel Matip as their primary center-backs. However, given the injury-prone history of Matip and Gomez, the addition of another high-quality option becomes all the more valuable.
Hincapie’s playing style harmonizes seamlessly with Klopp’s tactical approach. Liverpool’s penchant for high-pressing demands players who are comfortable in such scenarios, a trait Hincapie possesses. Furthermore, his ability to carry the ball out from the back aligns with Klopp’s expectations for his defenders. In summary, Hincapie’s potential inclusion in Liverpool’s squad would be a judicious move, given his youth, talent, versatility, and the enhancement of depth and quality in the defensive department it would bring.
