Liverpool have a number of key areas to address during the upcoming summer transfer window.
The Reds look likely to end the season as Premier League title winners but that won’t stop them from improving the squad further.
Plenty of the focus is set to be on bolstering the attack, where Liverpool could target Alexander Isak as a big-money signing.
However, the other end of the pitch should be a priority too, with Arne Slot ready to invest in a new centre-back and a starting left-back.
For some supporters, Liverpool could hit two birds with one stone and sign a player who can fill both of these roles.
One such option could be Bayer Leverkusen defender Piero Hincapie. And according to reports in Spain, the Reds are a serious contender for the Ecuadorian.
Liverpool set to battle for Piero Hincapie
Hincapie has been linked with Liverpool for the best part of two years. After four years at Leverkusen, the 23-year-old looks ready to move on.
And according to Spanish outlet SPORT, the Reds have already ‘expressed an interest’ in Hincapie’s future plans.
They are far from alone in this, however, with the paper focusing mainly on Real Madrid’s attempts to sign the Leverkusen man.
It’s claimed that Hincapie is now on a two-man centre-back shortlist for Madrid which also includes reported Liverpool target Dean Huijsen.
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Like Huijsen, Hincapie is said to have a release clause in his contract, which would allow him to leave for around £42m this summer.
Liverpool are reportedly prepared to rival Madrid for Hincapie’s signature, though, with Manchester United and Tottenham also claimed to be ready to join the race.
Hincapie passed November Anfield audition
Given how often Hincapie has been linked to Liverpool without ever moving, some supporters will perhaps be sceptical of further links.
However, anyone who watched him at Anfield in the Champions League last November should welcome fresh rumours surrounding the Ecuador international.
Indeed, Hincapie was excellent against Liverpool. Although Alonso’s team eventually went down 4-0, the defender stood out for the way he handled Mohamed Salah.
Still only 23 and already with excellent experience in a top European league and at international level, it’s easy to see the attraction of Hincapie.
As the Reds search for both a centre-back and a left-back this summer, we certainly wouldn’t rule him out of the running.
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