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Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has reportedly identified Bayer Leverkusen defender Piero Hincapie as a “priority” target following news that Levi Colwill could miss the entire season through injury.
Colwill, 22, suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury during Chelsea’s first pre-season training session last week and reports indicate that he may be sidelined until the 2026-27 campaign after successfully undergoing surgery.
That is according to Spanish publication Fichajes, who claim that Hincapie has been identified as a priority target by Maresca.
Chelsea have reportedly prepared a €50 million offer for the Ecuador international and the potential arrival of Loic Bade at Leverkusen could help the west London giants finalise a deal.
Hincapie made 45 appearances across all competitions last season and Maresca reportedly believes that he is capable of bolstering the defensive roster currently at his disposal.
The 23-year-old’s current contract at Bayer Leverkusen doesn’t expire until 2029, however, meaning Chelsea could be forced to submit an offer that far exceeds his €59.4 Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) if they are serious about landing the Ecuadorian.
Chelsea to sign a new centre-back?
Despite Maresca’s comments and Fichajes’ report, BBC Sport claim that Chelsea are currently unlikely to sign a new central defender before the end of Transfer Deadline Day.
The Blues hierarchy believe they still have enough options to compete for major honours this term, with Wesley Fofana, Trevoh Chalobah, Tosin Adarabioyo, Benoit Badiashile, Jorrel Hato, Josh Acheampong and Aaron Anselmino all available for selection in a centre-back role.
As a result, Chelsea appear unlikely to dip back into the market to finalise a deal for Hincapie.
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