As Real Madrid look to beef up their defensive unit, Piero Hincapie has been one of the names linked with a move to the Santiago Bernabeu.
In a Leverkusen team that has witnessed a mass exodus this summer, Hincapie is a strong candidate to become the last player to leave the club, following the footsteps of Granit Xhaka, Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Amine Adli and Jonathan Tah, among others.
Real Madrid are one of the clubs keeping close tabs on Hincapie, owing to the player’s connection with coach Xabi Alonso.
Hincapie ready to leave Leverkusen
Sky Sports journalist Florian Plettenberg has offered an update on Hincapie’s future, suggesting that the defender is ready to leave Leverkusen in this final week of the transfer market.
Leverkusen are keen on keeping hold of the Ecuadorian international, knowing they might find it difficult to find a replacement within a week.
However, with Real Madrid, among other clubs, interested in his services, the player could be tempted to take the next leap in his career.
GUAYAQUIL, ECUADOR - JUNE 05: Piero Hincapié of Ecuador reacts during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier match between Ecuador and Brazil at Estadio Monumental Isidro Romero Carbo on June 05, 2025 in Guayaquil, Ecuador. (Photo by Franklin Jacome/Getty Images)
Piero Hincapie is ready to leave Leverkusen. (Photo by Franklin Jacome/Getty Images)
Acquiring the services of the centre-back, though, could prove to be costly, with the defender having a release clause worth €60 million.
While Hincapie is ready to leave Leverkusen if a suitable offer arrives, Real Madrid might find it difficult to fund a €60 million move in a summer where they have already spent €178 million.
Therefore, Real Madrid might not be in a position to make a move for the Bundesliga star unless they can sanction a big money sale this summer.
Rodrygo, for one, has been closely linked with a move away from the Bernabeu and his potential sale could pave the way for Real Madrid to sign a new defender.
However, the Brazilian international has shown no desire to leave the club so far.