Atlético de Madrid are still in full swing in the transfer market. Diego Pablo Simeone has decided to change his strategy regarding defence. The club has put aside the option of Clément Lenglet, in order to focus on another centre-back, Piero Hincapié from Bayer Leverkusen.
Emphasis: The New Priority
Piero Hincapié , currently playing for Bayer Leverkusen, has become Atlético's main target. At just 22 years old, the Ecuadorian is a promising defender. His ability to play as a centre-back and left-back is highly valued. Hincapié has proven to be a solid and versatile defender.
Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso has already been informed of Atlético's interest in Hincapié. Although Leverkusen want to keep him, the offer from Madrid is tempting. Hincapié's potential and desire to play in a higher league could influence his decision.
Lenglet: ruled out by Simeone
Clément Lenglet had been an option to reinforce Atlético's defence, but Simeone has decided to rule out this option. The decision is based on the fact that Lenglet does not fit perfectly into the team's scheme. Simeone prefers a younger profile with greater room for improvement.
Lenglet has been linked for several years, but his age and high salary make him an unreasonable signing. Barcelona were hoping that Simeone would take him and do them a favour, but that is not going to be the case.
Negotiations with the German champion
Negotiations between Atlético Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen will be very tough. Hincapié's price could be an obstacle, but the club is willing to negotiate. The cost is expected to be higher than that of David Hancko, another option that has become more complicated.
Xabi Alonso is looking for alternatives in case Hincapié leaves. Bayer Leverkusen need a suitable replacement to not affect their performance in the Bundesliga. The season has already started and losing a defensive pillar could be a hard blow.
The Flick Problem
Hansi Flick now has a problem with Lenglet, who is not in his plans, but he is under contract and earns a high salary. It seems that no team is willing to pay for his transfer, which is why they were banking on Atlético de Madrid. Now that this option has been ruled out, Flick will have to deal with this problem in the best way possible and wait for the club to solve it.