Liverpool are rumored to be eyeing Bayer Leverkusen’s Piero Hincapie as a potential defensive reinforcement next summer.
Reds’ Defensive Revival Plan
Last season, Liverpool faced defensive struggles and was expected to strengthen their backline this summer.
Although several defenders were linked to the club, Liverpool ultimately focused on revamping their midfield.
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However, now it seems they’re contemplating a move for a defender next year, particularly a young left-sided one to potentially replace the aging Virgil van Dijk.
Liverpool Targeting Hincapie
Football Insider reports that Liverpool have identified Hincapie as a serious target to bolster their backline and may make a move for him in the upcoming transfer window.
Leverkusen is said to demand around £43 million for Hincapie, and Liverpool might opt to secure his signature at the end of the season, considering their substantial spending in the previous summer.
Others..
In addition to Hincapie, Liverpool are also considering Goncalo Inácio as a potential center-back option. However, Manchester United are also interested in Inácio, making it a tough competition for Liverpool.
Hincapie’s Potential
Hincapie, a 21-year-old with potential, has faced challenges breaking into Leverkusen’s starting lineup this season but possesses qualities such as speed, ball-playing ability, aerial prowess, and defensive efficiency that could make him a solid addition to Liverpool.
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2024: Liverpool’s Vital Defensive Upgrades
Meanwhile, Liverpool journalist Neil Jones believes that strengthening the defense in 2024 is crucial for the Reds, especially with Joel Matip’s contract expiring, Joe Gomez being considered more for a right-back role, and Virgil van Dijk aging.
Jones also mentions that Goncalo Inacio, Piero Hincapie, and Benfica’s Antonio Silva are potential targets, with the timing of any move dependent on the availability and affordability of these players.
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According to Jones…
“Both Goncalo Inacio and Piero Hincapie have been looked at by Liverpool, as has Benfica’s Antonio Silva, but any move in January would depend, I think, on two factors.
One is whether Liverpool’s current centre-backs are fit (at the moment, they are) and two is whether those players are available and affordable, mid-season.
Bayer Leverkusen, Sporting CP and Benfica all have designs on challenging for league titles, remember, so obtaining key players from them in January won’t be easy. Next summer would be more likely, unless circumstances change.”
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Jamie Carragher Emphasizes
Jamie Carragher emphasizes the importance of reinforcing the defense and midfield to enhance Liverpool’s chances of winning the Premier League.
“I think Liverpool lack a top central midfield player and maybe another defender. Those gaps will be plugged whether that is in January or in the summer. I think they will be better equipped next season to go for the Premier League.”
According to Hincapie’s agent, Liverpool are in discussions with Bayer Leverkusen regarding a potential January transfer, but other clubs are also interested.
This suggests that Liverpool are actively pursuing young center-back options to fortify their squad.
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