Liverpool open talks over €55M January deal for star defender
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is reportedly set to have the opportunity to bolster his squad further in the upcoming January transfer window.
The Reds had a busy summer, overhauling their midfield with several new signings while seeing some familiar faces depart.
However, Klopp still has plans to reinforce his defense, particularly to find a long-term replacement for the aging Joel Matip.
Matip, who joined the Anfield outfit on a free transfer from Schalke in 2016, has been a valuable player but has faced injury setbacks in recent times and is no longer considered a first-choice defender.
With his contract expiring next summer, Klopp was open to Matip’s departure during the summer if a suitable replacement could be found.
Despite Klopp’s intentions, the timing and the need to strengthen the midfield led to the delay of this plan.
Liverpool waiting for the January transfer window
Fortunately, with the January transfer window approaching in 104 days, Klopp will have the opportunity to address this defensive issue.
Reports from Spain suggest that Liverpool are actively pursuing a deal to sign Bayer Leverkusen’s star defender, Piero Hincapie.
The 21-year-old Ecuadorian is highly regarded in the Bundesliga and won’t come cheap.
Although the Merseyside club was linked with Hincapie over the summer, they didn’t make a formal approach, and he signed a new contract with Bayer Leverkusen until 2027.
Liverpool are reportedly hopeful of securing Hincapie’s signature for a fee of around €55 million (£47.5 million).
Despite his young age, Hincapie has already amassed significant experience with over 100 senior appearances and 27 caps for his national team, including participation in the 2022 World Cup.
Klopp is said to be pleased with the opportunity to have additional funds in January to pursue Hincapie.
Tottenham Hotspur had also shown interest in the South American defender in the past, but their attention shifted elsewhere after signing Dutch defender Micky van de Ven, who had also been on Liverpool’s radar.
