Bayer Leverkusen Set £60m Price for Defender as Liverpool Circle | OneFootball

Liverpool Consider Summer Move as Bayer Leverkusen Set £60m Price Tag

Liverpool’s defensive rebuild may well begin in Germany, with the Anfield club reportedly exploring a move for one of Bayer Leverkusen’s key figures from their recent Bundesliga-winning campaign. With questions surrounding the futures of both Joe Gomez and Jarell Quansah, Arne Slot’s squad could soon be light in central defence — and that opens the door for a high-profile addition.

Bundesliga Title-Winner in Demand

According to Christian Falk, chief correspondent at BILD, one of the standout names on Liverpool’s radar has been given a firm valuation by Leverkusen. Speaking in his Fact Files column for the Daily Briefing, Falk revealed:

“Piero Hincapie is one of the players Xabi Alonso might have to sell this summer. Liverpool, Chelsea and Tottenham from England are all interested, while Atletico Madrid have the Ecuadorian on their radar in Spain. However, Leverkusen’s price-tag is €70m.”

Photo by IMAGO

At approximately £60 million, it’s a substantial figure — but not unexpected given the 23-year-old’s role in Leverkusen’s success. Having made 37 appearances this season and contributing both defensively and offensively with three goals and two assists, he’s been a consistent performer under Alonso.

Versatility Key to Suiting Slot’s System

The Ecuadorian’s tactical flexibility will be particularly attractive to Liverpool. Comfortable both at centre-back and as a left-back, he fits the modern mould — press-resistant, proactive, and quick across the ground. His ability to carry the ball and engage in build-up play suits Slot’s possession-based blueprint.

It’s not just Liverpool showing interest, however. Chelsea and Tottenham are also reportedly tracking the player closely, while Atletico Madrid are monitoring developments from La Liga. This is shaping into a classic summer tug-of-war — but Liverpool may hold a trump card in their urgent need for depth.

Squad Departures Could Force Liverpool’s Hand

As it stands, Liverpool’s centre-back depth is deceptively thin. With Virgil van Dijk ageing, Ibrahima Konaté’s injury history, and the possibility of Gomez and Quansah leaving — Newcastle United are said to be admirers of both — the club cannot afford to begin the 2025/26 campaign with uncertainty in such a vital position.

Photo: IMAGO

Slot’s preference for fluid, intelligent defenders adds urgency to the need for reinforcements. And while Leverkusen have already lined up Albian Hajdari as a potential replacement, that in itself signals intent: Hincapie may indeed be sold this summer, if the price is right.

Transfer Market Starting to Take Shape

This early clarity over valuation from Leverkusen — a club famed for sharp, efficient business — suggests the German champions are preparing for offers. Liverpool, operating with strategic precision in recent windows, are unlikely to be alone in their pursuit, but the interest is tangible.

As Falk notes, this is not mere speculation. There’s real weight behind the attention from Premier League sides. And with European campaigns now concluded for many, the movement may begin sooner than usual.

Photo: IMAGO

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

For Liverpool, this makes sense. Arne Slot’s system will require mobile, tactically astute defenders — not just for defensive duties, but also for recycling possession and progressing the ball under pressure. The Bundesliga star in question ticks every box.

At £60 million, it’s not a cheap solution. But for a player already competing at the highest level in Germany, with the experience of winning under Xabi Alonso and European pedigree to match, the fee reflects modern market realities. It’s less a gamble and more a smart reinforcement for a team that must evolve.

With Gomez and Quansah possibly moving on, Liverpool can’t be reactive in this window — they must lead it. That means finalising targets early, acting decisively, and trusting the new managerial structure to deliver what Klopp’s final season showed was missing: defensive depth and reliable rotation.

If this deal materialises, fans can feel optimistic. It’s a signing of intent — one that doesn’t just patch a problem but positions Liverpool for long-term success in the Slot era.