Piero Hincapie could be on his way to Serie A with the reported Celtic and Newcastle United target the subject of a bid from Italian giants Napoli, according to Calciomercato.
The 2021 Copa America certainly came at a good time for one of South America’s most talented young defenders.
The 19-year-old Ecuador international was already emerging as a man in serious demand before the tournament kicked off.
And, despite being shown a red card during the 3-0 quarter final defeat to a Lionel Messi-inspired Argentina, Hincapie still emerged from the Copa America with his reputation greatly enhanced.
An outstanding performance against Brazil in the group stages certainly helped in that regard.
And, after keeping Tite’s star-studded Selecao at arms’ length, Hincapie admitted that he would jump at the chance to leave Argentine outfit Talleres should an opportunity present itself on the other side of the Atlantic.
“A player dreams of going abroad and playing in better leagues,” Hincapie said. “If the opportunity to leave is given, it would be best to take that leap.”
Is Piero Hincapie set to join Serie A giants Napoli?
Napoli have an excellent track record when it comes to signing up-and-coming superstars from the Americas and one of Italy’s biggest clubs are big fans of the commanding, cultured Hincapie.
Calciomercato reports that an opening offer has been made, although it is uncertain at this stage whether Napoli are willing to match Talleres’ demands.
They want more than £9 million.
Such a fee would require Celtic to break their transfer record for Hincapie – something that seems unlikely in a market hit by COVID-19 and at a time when the Hoops are under pressure to reinforce other areas of their squad (MD).
Then again, cashing in on the likes of Kristoffer Ajer and Odsonne Edouard before the end of the window could change things.
Newcastle United are also prioritising a ball-playing centre-half despite tying Federico Fernandez, Fabian Schar and Paul Dummett to new deals.
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