On Tuesday evening, Real Madrid got their La Liga season off to a winning start with a 1-0 win at home to Osasuna.
However, the performance was unconvincing, and they needed a penalty to secure all three points.
This has lead to fans reiterating the need for reinforcements in a number of areas.
One player that the Spanish giants have been linked with is Piero Hincapie of Bayer Leverkusen.
After all, the Ecuadorian defender worked with Xabi Alonso for two and a half years in Germany.
He would provide Real with an option both at left-back and centre-back, and gives them the chance to potentially play a back three when needed.
However, a deal now looks unlikely to happen.
As per ESPN, there are several English Premier League clubs interested in Hincapie.
They state that clubs in England are “more interested” in a transfer than Xabi Alonso’s side.
Dean Huijsen was signed at the start of the summer, and impressed against Osasuna.
However, many feel that Real are still one player short in that area.
Although Eder Militao also played well on Tuesday, it would be incredibly risky to rely on the fitness of someone who has suffered two ACL injuries.
Meanwhile, Antonio Rudiger is currently injured, and his best years may be behind him.
Whilst David Alaba, whom is entering his mid 30’s, is also very injury prone.
Finally, Raul Asencio had a Club World Cup to forget and isn’t at the required level.
So you feel like at least one more central defender was necessary, but it doesn’t look like that will be Hincapie.
In their report, ESPN suggested an offer between 40-60 million Euros may force Leverkusen to sell.
A bargain at any price similar to that for English clubs, especially when factoring in the pounds to euros discrepancy.
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