Tottenham have identified Piero Hincapie as a defensive option to strengthen their left flank this summer.
Daniel Levy has accelerated transfer business this month. Joao Palhinha was signed from Bayern Munich on loan, while Mohammed Kudus has climbed the ranks at Tottenham.
Spurs are now looking to sign Eberechi Eze and Savinho before the market closes. But with Destiny Udogie predisposed to injuries, the Lilywhites are on the hunt for defensive reinforcements.
Hincapie has emerged as a viable option to strengthen their defence this summer.
Bayer Leverkusen do not intent to sell Hincapie
Tottenham were prepared to splash the cash on Hincapie this month.
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The move was set to challenge Micky van de Ven’s place in Thomas Frank’s lineup. But it seems the Spurs defender can breathe a sigh of relief as Bayer Leverkusen have made their position clear.
As reported by Fabrizio Romano on Monday, 18 August, despite Premier League clubs’ appreciation, Leverkusen see Hincapie as a key part of their project.
Erik ten Hag’s side have no intention of selling the Ecuadorian defender this summer and is seen as a crucial player by the manager.
This will come as a huge blow to Tottenham who already missed out on Jorrel Hato to Chelsea earlier in the window. But it seems that it’s back to the drawing board for Levy once again.
Will Tottenham miss out after Hincapie?
While Hincapie is frequently deployed as a centre-back, he is also comfortable as a left-back.
According to FBREF, last season, he was in the 98th percentile of aerials won, while Udogie was in the 24th.
There is also a huge gap when it comes to clearances between the defenders. Hincapie is in the 84th percentile, while Udogie is in the 15th. However, the Spurs left-back is in the 93rd for blocks while Leverkusen’s star is in the 85th.
Udogie is a greater asset going forward, performing better in progressive carries, take-ons and touches in the opposition box.
Therefore, it seems that it comes down to what the manager prefers to have in his team. Frank prioritises a tight defensive unit, which could require the expertise of Hincapie. But paired alongside Cristian Romero and van de Ven, Udogie’s attacking capabilities seem to offer the perfect balance.