Chelsea have sent scouts to watch Bayer Leverkusen defender Piero Hincapie at the World Cup, according to reports in the last 48 hours.

The Lowdown: Hincapie selected by Ecuador

The Ecuadorian was named in Gustavo Alfaro’s 26-man squad to represent the South American nation in Qatar, but that hasn’t stopped speculation from circulating regarding his future in the Bundesliga.

Premier League sides Arsenal and Tottenham have been closely monitoring his progress after some impressive performances under Xabi Alonso, though it sounds like the Blues have now also identified him as a transfer target ahead of the winter market.

The Latest: Chelsea scouting Hincapie

According to The Mirror's Tom Hopkinson, Chelsea scouts have been ‘checking on’ Hincapie at the World Cup, with the player being ‘looked at’ by Graham Potter and Todd Boehly in what is described as a 'first move'.

Leverkusen are reportedly ‘bracing themselves for bids’ in the New Year after failing to qualify for the Champions League, so this could be one to watch if the hierarchy like what they see over the next couple of weeks.

The Verdict: Silva replacement?

Thiago Silva isn’t getting any younger (38), and with his contract set to expire at the end of the season, Hincapie would be the perfect long-term replacement.

The centre-back currently averages 2.1 clearances and 1.6 successful aerial duels per league game alongside offering versatility, with the ability to operate at left-back (WhoScored).

Victor Hernandez Molina previously hailed Hincapie as ‘colossal’, and he would surely be a welcome addition at Stamford Bridge should he decide to put pen to paper on a deal in 2023.