Newcastle United are reportedly rivalling Tottenham Hotspur for the signature of Bayer Leverkusen defender Piero Hincapie.
The 21-year-old had already made an impression in his first campaign at the Bundesliga outfit before his stock continued to rise considerably during 2022-23.
Although Leverkusen endured a poor opening three months to the season by their own standards, Hincapie remained a key man and further showcased his qualities at the World Cup with Ecuador.
Hincapie played each minute of his nation's three matches, the South American country only missing out on a last-16 spot after a late defeat to Senegal in their final group fixture.
Germany's top flight only resumed on January 21, and Hincapie has started each of Leverkusen's three fixtures since then, helping his team accumulate six points.
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While Xabi Alonso sees the versatile defender as a key man in his squad, speculation persists regarding his future with Premier League clubs said to be circling for his signature.
According to Football Insider, Spurs have been locked in discussions with their Leverkusen counterparts in relation to a potential January transfer.
A further report by BILD has suggested that a bid of €25m (£22m) has been proposed to Leverkusen.
Nevertheless, the report from Football Insider says that Newcastle are also monitoring the situation ahead of potentially strengthening their backline.
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On Sunday, the Magpies confirmed the big-money signing of Anthony Gordon from Everton, who has effectively replace Chris Wood after his departure to Nottingham Forest.
However, midfielder Jonjo Shelvey is expected to join Nottingham Forest, freeing up space in the squad and wage bill, and fresh additions are likely to be considered.
The report claims that Newcastle would prefer to wait until the summer to sign Hincapie, although is something which seemingly cannot be guaranteed given the level of Spurs' interest.
Hincapie, who can play at centre-back and left-back, still has three-and-a-half years remaining on his contract.
Darren Plant
