Liverpool

OFFICIAL DONE: Liverpool have complete the signing of Bayer Leverkusen rated player as player set for medical on monday

Published

11 months ago

August 26, 2023

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REDS READY TO SPLASH CASH FOR LEVERKUSEN’S DEFENSIVE ACE

Reds Ready to Splash Cash for Leverkusen's Defensive Ace

LIVERPOOL EYE ANOTHER DEFENSIVE ADDITION: PIERO HINCAPIE

Liverpool’s transfer window activities have been nothing short of meticulous. The Reds have been strategic in their approach, ensuring they bolster their squad depth, especially in the midfield. Early acquisitions like Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai set the tone, and the surprise addition of Wataru Endo further showcased their intent. However, the loss of Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia did raise a few eyebrows.

As the transfer window nears its closure, Liverpool’s gaze has shifted towards strengthening their defensive line-up. And one name that’s been doing the rounds is that of Bayer Leverkusen’s stalwart, Piero Hincapie.

THE HINCAPIE PROFILE: KLOPP’S IDEAL CENTRE-BACK?

Reports from Fichajes, as cited by Football365, suggest that Jurgen Klopp’s brigade is ready to make a significant investment in Hincapie. The Ecuadorian defender, who has been honing his skills under the guidance of Anfield legend Xabi Alonso, seems to fit the mould of what Klopp envisions for his defensive line. At 21, Hincapie’s attributes are impressive. His physical presence, ball possession skills, and left-footed prowess provide Klopp with the tactical flexibility to reposition captain Virgil van Dijk, especially to cover for Trent Alexander-Arnold’s dynamic midfield movements.

However, BILD has been quick to temper expectations, hinting that prising Hincapie away from Leverkusen won’t be straightforward. The Bundesliga side reportedly values their defender at a whopping €70 million, a figure that dwarfs Liverpool’s speculated €45m bid.

CONTRACTUAL COMMITMENTS AND MARKET VALUE

It’s worth noting that Hincapie committed his future to Leverkusen earlier this year, penning a deal that runs until 2027. This contract, coupled with his instrumental role in guiding Ecuador to the World Cup knockout stages, puts Leverkusen in a strong negotiating position.

Adding to the complexity is Leverkusen’s recent business with Premier League clubs. They parted ways with their French sensation, Moussa Diaby, who joined Aston Villa for a record fee of around £45m. It’s unlikely they’d be keen on letting another gem leave for a similar amount.

Transfermarkt currently pegs Hincapie’s market value at €35m, but as is often the case in the transfer market, valuations can be subjective.

Liverpool blow confirmed as £35m man is ruled out of tomorrow’s trip to Newcastle

According to The Mail’s Craig Hope, Liverpool centre-back Ibrahima Konate has now been ruled out of tomorrow’s game trip to Newcastle United.

Jurgen Klopp revealed yesterday that the giant Frenchman was a “doubt”, but it’s emerged that he will NOT be fit for the 4.30pm kick-off at St James’ Park.

This will means either Joe Gomez or Joel Matip come in for the Reds, handing Newcastle an early boost ahead of the game. Gomez struggled in our last meeting with the Reds, while Matip’s last start was a 4-4 draw at Southampton back in May.

Elsewhere, Joelinton has been passed fit for Newcastle, with Jacob Murphy likely to return to the squad after he missed out at Man City.

For the visitors, Trent Alexander-Arnold is OK despite limping off last weekend and Alexis Mac Allister is available after his red card in their 3-1 win over Bournemouth was rescinded.