Highly-rated Bayer Leverkusen defender offers himself to Real Madrid | OneFootball

According to a report from Rodra via ESPN, Bayer Leverkusen defender Piero Hincapie has been offered to Real Madrid, as the Spanish giants continue to assess their defensive options ahead of the new season.

After their assessment of the Club World Cup, Real Madrid realised that despite making four new signings already, their squad overhaul is still incomplete.

One of the biggest concerns for Xabi Alonso and his coaching staff is the centre-back position, where the depth looks fragile.

Struggles in the area

Last season’s injury nightmare continues to haunt Real Madrid’s planning for the 2025/26 season. David Alaba is still not fully recovered from his knee injury, and there are doubts over how much he can contribute this season.

Eder Militao has returned from the United States after rehabbing two back-to-back ligament injuries, and while the medical team is optimistic about his fitness, his on-pitch performance remains a question mark.

Piero Hincapie has offered himself to Real Madrid. (Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images)

At present, Antonio Rudiger, Huijsen, and Raul Asencio are the only senior centre-backs who are fully available from day one.

However, Asencio’s performances at the Club World Cup were underwhelming, raising further doubts about his ability to play a key role in high-pressure games.

Hincapie has offered himself

Given this situation, Hincapie has reportedly made himself available to Real Madrid. The Ecuadorian international worked under Xabi Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen, making the connection between player and manager a logical fit.

Hincapie is known for his versatility, capable of playing both as a centre-back and left-back, which could add valuable flexibility to Real Madrid’s backline.

For now, the club is keeping an eye on the situation. With the rest of the defensive positions covered, Madrid’s focus will likely stay on the centre-back department until the transfer window closes.

Whether or not they move for Hincapie depends on how Alaba and Militao progress in the coming weeks.