Real Madrid is looking to strengthen its defense for next season, and one of the names that has begun to be mentioned frequently at the Santiago Bernabéu is Piero Hincapié. The Ecuadorian defender from Bayer Leverkusen, who has established himself as one of the key players in Xabi Alonso‘s team (his arrival would be crucial for the signing of the player), now appears as an option to strengthen the Whites’ defense, especially after a season plagued by injuries and the inconsistency of some players that has set off alarm bells in the capital.
Reinforcement for the defense
At 22, Piero Hincapié has not only proved himself to be a reliable center back, but has also performed solidly as a left back, a dual role that fits perfectly with the profile Real Madrid is looking for. With Ferland Mendy constantly plagued by physical problems and uncertainty over possible failed signings such as Alphonso Davies, the Merengue club needs players who can fill more than one position with guarantees.
This season, Hincapié has been a key part of Xabi Alonso’s team. Bayer Leverkusen has had a great season fighting for the Bundesliga, the Cup and the Europa League. The South American defender has also been one of the best defenders in South America according to the International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS), and was part of the continent’s ideal team. These successes make him a candidate for any top club in Europe.
Real Madrid in search of a versatile player
Real Madrid’s defensive collapse throughout the season seems to be forcing them to make a move. The injuries to Rüdiger, Alaba and Mendy, added to those of Militao and Carvajal, have left the team with a depleted defense.
In this regard, Piero Hincapié emerges as an unknown alternative to consider. His release clause is €60 million, but it is estimated that Real Madrid could close the deal for €40 million. This is a high figure, but justified by the player’s current level, his youth, and his international profile.
In addition to the Ecuadorian, the club also has two players trained at La Fábrica on its radar: Miguel Gutiérrez, currently at Girona, and Álvaro Carreras, who plays in English football. Both are pure left-backs but lack the international experience and versatility that Hincapié already offers in top-flight leagues.
Hincapié and Real Madrid’s transfer policy
The signing of Piero Hincapié is a bet on the future for Real Madrid. Thanks to his ability to perform both in the center and on the left side of the defense, he can adapt to different formations, something that the team is taking into account when considering possible reinforcements. In addition, his youth guarantees room for growth in a squad that is looking to rejuvenate itself without losing competitiveness.
Real Madrid would spring a surprise with this signing, unknown to the Santiago Bernabéu crowd, but considered ready to make the leap to a giant like the club. The final decision will be made in the coming weeks when the league competition ends, but it is true that the arrival of this player fits in with the team’s policy of signing young talent at a good price, with experience in the major European leagues and a versatility that makes him an option to be considered in the Santiago Bernabéu offices for next season.