Piero Hincapie is reportedly available for €30 million, with Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur among those vying for the 20-year-old.
According to a report by Italian outlet Calciomercato, Piero Hincapie could be reportedly available for around €30 million. Arsenal and Tottenham are among the clubs keen on signing him, but the Ecuadorian defender’s agent insists there are no official offers yet.
Bayer Leverkusen found another gem in Piero Hincapie in 2020, signing him from Argentinian side Talleres for €6.5 million. The physically imposing 20-year-old has become a regular presence at the club and for his country. He featured in all three matches of Ecuador’s group stage journey in Qatar and certainly made an impression on the watching audience.
The 20-year-old defender is immovable in the Ecuador side, having already racked up 23 caps for the South American nation. Back in Europe, he is putting in consistent displays for Bayer Leverkusen, who have him tied down to a contract until 2026.
The report claims Hincapie is reportedly valued at between €25 million and €30 million. Taking it into the context of his widespread interest, the asking price seems fair. Bayer Leverkusen know how to unearth raw gems and sell them for profit after a concerted development period.
The story also adds Bayer Leverkusen have no interest in selling at this stage but cannot ignore the interest from all around. If the Arsenal and Tottenham defensive target is available for €30 million, those clubs will form a queue.
Arsenal and Tottenham are in the market for a new left-footed centre-back, Evan Ndicka, a target for both clubs, and Newcastle United. Other names, such as Alessandro Bastoni, are also part of Tottenham’s shortlist.
While the Italian defender will prove a difficult buy, Antonio Conte still wants to refresh his defensive setup and needs to be more convinced by current options. Hence the need for a new centre-back is evident during January, and Tottenham will try to sign one. Hincapie could become a good shout if he is available.
Similarly, Arsenal are keen on Hincapie. The Gunners are in the market for a new left-footed centre-back despite their defensive department shining this season. The only real concern is the lack of competition for Gabriel Magalhaes, as Rob Holding seemingly feels out of order for Mikel Arteta’s system.
Hincapie is a young centre-back with a huge career in front of him. Any team would take him in a heartbeat, but much will depend on the 20-year-old’s preference. Playing regularly at a new club is imperative, which is why he is comfortable at Bayer Leverkusen.
