Hincapie, a 21-year-old player, initially played as a left-back before recently transitioning to a central defensive role. He has been pivotal for both his club and national team in the past couple of years. Notably, he played a significant role under Xabi Alonso's guidance during Leverkusen's journey to the semi-finals of the Europa League last season. Moreover, he represented his nation in all three matches of the 2022 World Cup.
Currently sidelined due to a fractured metatarsal, Hincapie has still captured Liverpool's interest for a potential signing before the fast-approaching closure of the summer transfer window. However, reports from Football Insider suggest that Leverkusen has declined Liverpool's advances and has firmly communicated that Hincapie is not available for sale during this summer, regardless of the circumstances.
Leverkusen's stance is backed by the fact that Hincapie recently extended his contract in February and is committed to Alonso's team until the conclusion of the 2026-27 season. Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea have also been linked with interest in Hincapie, who boasts a record of three goals and two assists in 76 appearances for Leverkusen. It's worth noting, however, that he was sent off three times last season.
In light of Leverkusen's refusal, Liverpool is reportedly shifting its attention towards alternative defensive targets in the upcoming days, as Klopp seeks to rejuvenate an aging defensive lineup. While Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate are established starters when fit, Joel Matip's prominence has waned, and his departure is anticipated either this summer or upon the expiration of his contract in 2024.
Despite signing a new long-term contract last summer, Joe Gomez remains on the periphery of Klopp's squad. Nat Phillips has been persistently linked with leaving the club, and Klopp appears to have taken notice of Torino's defender Perr Schuurs. Liverpool's impetus to acquire a new defender has intensified following a recent injury concern surrounding Konate.
Presently, it remains uncertain whether Konate will recover in time to play against Newcastle United on Sunday. This uncertainty could potentially hinder Nat Phillips' departure from Anfield once again.
