Chelsea reacts to Levi Colwill’s injury and analyzes the situation of Bayer Leverkusen’s Piero Hincapié
Bayer Leverkusen defender emerges as top candidate to reinforce Maresca’s backline
Chelsea have opened talks to strengthen their defense following the injury of Levi Colwill, with Bayer Leverkusen’s Piero Hincapié emerging as a leading target for manager Enzo Maresca. The Ecuador international, regarded as one of Europe’s most promising defenders, could be brought in to offset the absence of the England centre-back.
According to Mail Sport, Hincapié’s versatility and tactical awareness make him an ideal fit for Chelsea’s system. The 22-year-old played a pivotal role in Bayer Leverkusen’s Bundesliga title-winning campaign under Xabi Alonso, excelling in both a back three and a back four.
Chelsea Weighing Defensive Options
While Hincapié is the priority, Barcelona’s Ronald Araújo has also been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge. Maresca and his coaching staff are evaluating both profiles before formalising a bid that meets the squad’s defensive requirements.
Hincapié’s strengths include speed, aggressive yet controlled defending, and composure on the ball. His passing range allows him to initiate attacks from deep, while his advanced positioning disrupts opposition build-up play.
Momentum After Club World Cup Triumph
Chelsea head into the 2025-26 season on the back of a Club World Cup victory in the United States, where they defeated Palmeiras, Fluminense, and Paris Saint-Germain to lift the trophy. Maresca’s side has impressed in pre-season, with Brazilian starlet Estêvão scoring on debut and quickly winning over supporters.
With high expectations for the new campaign, the Blues are determined to address Colwill’s absence swiftly potentially making Hincapié the club’s next major signing.
