The white team is clear about what position they need to strengthen for the coming season.
Real Madrid are already planning their next move in the transfer market, and all indications are that the next reinforcement will come on defense. With Xabi Alonso determined to consolidate the three-centre-back system used successfully against Salzburg in the group stage of the Club World Cup, the club has turned its attention to an old acquaintance of the coach: Piero Hincapié. The Ecuadorian centre-back, whom Alonso previously coached at Bayer Leverkusen, appears to be the ideal candidate for this new defensive model.
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The Basque coach has been clear about what profile he is looking for. He needs a defender who can not only close spaces, but also has the ability to initiate the game from behind with a good understanding of the game. In this area, Hincapié provides guarantees. At 22, the South American footballer has shown maturity, tactical intelligence and ball skills – qualities that make him an attractive bet in the new white project.
Xabi Alonso asks for the signing of Piero Hincapié
In addition to his tactical suitability, the market value makes him even more interesting. It is believed that a transfer could be completed for a sum of around €40 million, a manageable amount for Madrid if they manage to complete some significant player sales. Among the possible players who could be sacrificed are important names such as Rodrygo Goes and Eduardo Camavinga – players who are highly valued in Europe and can bring in significant income.
Hincapié’s arrival will not only strengthen the defensive line, but also allow for a more solid rotation in an increasingly demanding schedule. Alonso wants a team that can defend as a unit and build up the game from the back. In that system, the Ecuadorian has everything it takes to shine in that “merengue” jersey. Discussions are still in the early stages, but everything is set in motion in Valdebebas for a signing that could shape Real Madrid’s structure in the 2025/26 season.
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