Tottenham Hotspur have stepped up their pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen defender Piero Hincapié, submitting a fresh proposal structured as a loan with an obligation to buy for around €60 million.
The figure matches the 23-year-old’s release clause but Spurs are aiming to spread the cost, with payments deferred until 2026. Discussions have also started over personal terms, with Hincapié understood to be keen on joining Tottenham this summer.
Hincapié Wants Leverkusen Exit
Fabrizio Romano reports that Hincapié has informed Leverkusen of his desire to leave, with Tottenham offering him a direct route into the Premier League.
“Tottenham have made a new proposal for Piero Hincapié: loan with obligation to buy for €60m. Player wants to leave Bayer, Spurs are now discussing personal terms.” — Fabrizio Romano
The Ecuador international has been a key figure at Leverkusen under Xabi Alonso, capable of playing both as a left centre-back and at left-back. His versatility is viewed as crucial by new Spurs boss Thomas Frank as he seeks to strengthen his defensive line.
Why Spurs Need Hincapié
Tottenham’s back line has been stretched by injuries in recent months and the club remain determined to add a left-footed defender before the window closes.
With Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven established as the preferred pairing, Hincapié’s arrival would provide depth, balance and long-term security in a position Spurs have prioritised since the summer began.
Tottenham Defensive Depth Chart 2025
| Position | Current Options | With Hincapié |
|---|---|---|
| Right Centre-Back | Cristian Romero, Radu Drăgușin | Cristian Romero, Radu Drăgușin |
| Left Centre-Back | Micky van de Ven, Ben Davies | Micky van de Ven, Piero Hincapié |
| Back-Up / Rotation | Ben Davies, Ashley Phillips | Ben Davies |
| Left-Back Cover | Destiny Udogie, Djed Spence | Destiny Udogie, Piero Hincapié |
| Ball-Playing Option | Van de Ven (L), Romero (R) | Van de Ven (L), Hincapié (L), Romero (R) |
source: club squad depth – August 2025
Tottenham’s defensive depth shows exactly why they are moving for Hincapié. He would provide natural cover at left centre-back, add balance as a left-footed ball-player, and ease the reliance on Ben Davies as the only senior back-up option.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William:
“This is clever structuring from Spurs — they meet the release clause figure without the immediate financial hit. But Leverkusen will push back hard; Ten Hag won’t want to lose one of his best defenders this late in the window.”
“Hincapié ticks every box for Tottenham: young, versatile, Premier League-ready. The key now is timing — if the deal drags, Spurs risk late competition from rivals.”
Key Insights
- Spurs proposal: loan + obligation to buy at €60m from 2026.
- Hincapié has told Leverkusen he wants to leave.
- Tottenham now discussing personal terms with the player.
- Ecuador international can play centre-back and left-back.
- Thomas Frank prioritising defensive reinforcements before deadline.
What’s Next for Spurs?
Talks will continue between Tottenham and Bayer Leverkusen this week, with negotiations expected to intensify as the transfer deadline approaches.
Should Spurs reach an agreement on structure and timing, Hincapié could travel to London for a medical as early as next week. But Leverkusen, who fought hard to keep him in past windows, may demand immediate payment to sanction his exit.
Would Piero Hincapié be the perfect long-term partner for Micky van de Ven at Tottenham, or is at a back-up signing?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 25 Aug 2025 10:09
backup, Ven and Romero won't be sitting on the bench, they're very good together tbh.
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