Atlético de Madrid knows it's late to the market. While other European teams have completed strategic signings with the demanding schedule in mind, the Colchoneros are still evaluating options. Defense has been its weakest point this season, and Simeone needs a solid center-back with potential who can provide immediate guarantees.
This is where Piero Hincapié comes in, a left-footed center-back from Bayer Leverkusen. At 23 years old, the Ecuadorian has character, ball-playing ability, and international experience. The club sees him as a solid bet to rebuild a backline that has lost its solidity, but the problem is that they're not alone.
Xabi Alonso breaks the plans
Everything seemed to be on track until Xabi Alonso entered the scene. The former Leverkusen coach, who knows Hincapié well, doesn't want to lose one of his key pieces. The most striking thing is that he's not opposing it just to protect Leverkusen: he doesn't want him to end up at Atlético and has reportedly already made a firm decision. "I'm going to talk to Florentino."
Xabi, who's being considered as a future Real Madrid coach, wants to make sure the Ecuadorian center-back doesn't end up in the hands of its direct rival. His goal is clear: pull strings so that, if he leaves Germany, it's only to head to Santiago Bernabéu. An unexpected move that's irritated the Rojiblanca board.
Madrid studies the case
In Chamartín, they aren't ruling out strengthening the defense. Although Huijsen has arrived and Militao is about to return, doubts have grown after the recent performances of Rüdiger and Asencio in the Club World Cup. Both made serious mistakes that cost goals and results, and the defensive level isn't entirely convincing.
Madrid has several center-backs on its list, but Hincapié is appealing because of his physical profile, youth, and adaptability. He's not a priority, but if the opportunity arises for a reasonable price, the White club could enter the bidding. Even more so if he comes with Xabi Alonso's endorsement, as he has an increasingly influential voice in sports planning.
Low blow to Atlético?
At Metropolitano, they feel betrayed. Not only by Madrid, but by Xabi Alonso himself. Simeone considered Hincapié a priority and saw him as the kind of aggressive, modern center-back he desperately needs.
But the scenario has changed. Now, the signing hangs by a thread and will depend on upcoming talks between clubs and Xabi's persuasive power.
For now, the player hasn't spoken, but his name has sparked a silent battle between two giants of Spanish soccer. The market isn't over, but Xabi Alonso's move has already caused tensions. At Atlético, the word "betrayal" is already being heard loudly.