Liverpool look like they will miss out on the signing of Bayer Leverkusen centre-back Piero Hincapie this summer, according to a new transfer update.

A new central defender is vital for the Reds before the end of the summer window, following Jarell Quansah’s recent move to Leverkusen.

Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi is arguably the front-runner to come in, according to reports in recent weeks, but Hincapie has also been linked with Liverpool in the recent past.

But now, according to The Boot Room, Leverkusen are “not willing to listen to offers” for the latter, with new manager Erik ten Hag wanting him to stay put this summer.

Tottenham and Chelsea have also been mentioned as options for Hincapie, but it looks as though a move to the Premier League is off the cards.

A blow for Liverpool, but Guehi No.1 choice

Hincapie is a gifted and influential centre-back who could have been an excellent signing for Liverpool, with former Reds midfielder Xabi Alonso hailing him during their time working together at Leverkusen:

“I think he’s a very modern defender, he can play in different positions. He’s served us as a full-back in recent games but has also been the left centre-back when we’ve played with a back three. He’s aggressive, is making better decisions when he has the ball, backs himself more to play diagonal passes and get in behind. It motivates me to have a player with his potential and desire because he helps you and you help him. He’s a great player.”

Even if Hincapie was available, though, Guehi still feels like the ideal man for Liverpool to bring in this summer, even though the England international clearly won’t arrive on the cheap.

At 24, he is at an ideal point in his career to be an instant hit for the Reds, already picking up huge experience but having lots of time to improve alongside superior players than at Palace, and he would also add a homegrown element to Arne Slot’s squad.

It remains to be seen if Guehi is the man to join Liverpool, but if he isn’t, it is paramount that an alternative option comes in instead.