Tottenham Hotspur sporting director Fabio Paratici has made contact to sign Bayer Leverkusen 'rising star' Piero Hincapie, according to reports.

The Lowdown: Spurs plan for January?

The Lilywhites enjoyed a very productive summer transfer window, snapping up the likes of Ivan Perisic, Fraser Forster, Yves Bissouma, Richarlison, Clement Lenglet, Djed Spence, Destiny Udogie and completing a permanent deal for Cristian Romero.

However, this campaign represents a tough challenge for manager Antonio Conte, who is forced to cope with the added European fixture schedule and congested run of games before November's 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Taking this into account, the Premier League giants may need to add reinforcements mid-season to combat the added demands of this long and intense season.

The Latest: Paratici makes Hincapie contact...

Now, some news has emerged on this front.

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Football Insider claim Spurs chief Paratici has made contact with Leverkusen defender Hincapie's camp over a possible move as he opens discussions.

The 'rising star' Ecuador international is thought to have agreed a new contract at Leverkusen in a possible blow to the north Londoners, but the report adds this is unlikely to deter Spurs, who remain keen on Hincapie.

The Verdict: Get it done?

The £34 million centre-back is currently amassing a 'growing reputation' abroad and South American football expert Tim Vickery has called him 'excellent' in a back three.

Conte may be attracted to the latter aspect of his game, though Hincapie's age and debatable lack of maturity could also make the Italian think twice about green-lighting this move.

Much could depend on whether the 20-year-old does in fact sign a new deal with Leverkusen and just how much his price could increase as a result.

There are incentives to make a move, but as highlighted by Djed Spence's lack of game time under Conte, Spurs chiefs may have to think twice before swooping for another young starlet with lots of room to improve,