Chelsea are believed to be in search of a centre-back this summer. For a long while, it had looked like they were leading the race for Dean Huijsen, but then, Real Madrid swooped in and got a deal done for the Spanish international. Since then, we have seen the Blues being linked with a number of centre-backs. But then, other clubs are interested in them as well.
Marc Guehi would probably be the best fit for Chelsea. He is Premier League-proven, a leader, a full England international and came through the youth ranks at Cobham. But Liverpool are believed to be looking to sign him as well, and the Anfield project would probably be a lot more attractive to most right now.
So, Chelsea need to have alternative targets as well. And it looks like they have a Bayer Leverkusen centre-back in their sights.
As reported by Fichajes, Chelsea are preparing an offer to sign Piero Hincapie. The Blues' sporting directors believe the Ecuadorian's profile fits perfectly with the style the new coaching staff is seeking to implement. Bayer Leverkusen have valued him at around €60 million, and the Stamford Bridge outfit are willing to negotiate, aware that they need a reliable reinforcement in that area of the pitch.
Chelsea preparing offer for €60 million centre-back
Hincapie is just 23 years of age but he already has plenty of experience under his belt. He has made 164 appearances for Bayer Leverkusen and has played 46 times for Ecuador as well.
Will Bayer Leverkusen be open to parting ways with Hincapie this summer? They have already said goodbye to two key players with Jeremie Frimpong and Florian Wirtz joining Liverpool.
Hincapie has a release clause set at around €60 million. It remains to be seen if Bayer Leverkusen are willing to budge on that figure.