South American star would be ‘better fit than Hincapie’ at the Emirates

Arsenal would be better off targeting Felix Torres rather than his fellow Ecuador centre-back Piero Hincapie, with the World Cup providing the perfect opportunity to compare the two, according to South American football expert Tim Vickery.

Mikel Arteta splashed more than £100 million on new signings during the summer transfer window but further investment could come in the new year.

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The Gunners are understood to be considering a move for Bayer Leverkusen defender Hincapie ahead of the January transfer window.

The Bundesliga outfit only bought the Ecuador international to the club in the summer of 2021 after sealing a £5.5 million agreement with Argentinian side CA Talleres.

Tottenham Hotspur were also reported to be interested in his services this summer, as Antonio Conte sought out a left-sided centre-back, but were quoted £34 million.

On the other hand, Torres is plying his trade in Mexico with Santos Laguna, scoring two goals in 13 appearances so far this season.

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What has Vickery said on the defenders?

Vickery believes that it is Torres the Gunners should be looking at rather than his national teammate.

The journalist says he is surprised no one has snapped him up already, claiming he has the traits to make him a perfect fit in the Premier League.

When asked about the prospect of a post-World Cup deal, Vickery told GIVEMESPORT: “Hincapie is one of theirs [Ecuador’s] but, to be honest, I think the centre-back who’s really worth a look, is the other one, Felix Torres, who plays in Mexico and I’m surprised he’s still in Mexico.

“They [Ecuador] brought him into the team after the Copa America and he has improved their defending so much. He’s a giant figure, very useful in the air and in both penalty areas. But he’s also quick over the ground and I think he would be a good fit.

“A lot of the Ecuadorian players who are doing well in the Premier League, part of that is the physicality. They’re a big, physically strong, quick side, Ecuador, and Torres symbolises that.”

Read more: World Cup 2022: Dates, Schedule, Location, Groups, Tickets, Odds And More

Who will the players come up against in Qatar?

Ecuador will have the eyes of the world on them when the tournament gets underway on November 20 when they take on hosts Qatar in Group A.

Torres has now made 16 appearances for his country, scoring two goals, while Hincapie has racked up 21 caps.

Other than Qatar, the defensive duo will have the chance to strut their stuff against Louis van Gaal’s Netherlands side and reigning Africa Cup of Nations champions Senegal.

If they can impress against the likes of Memphis Depay, Cody Gakpo and Sadio Mane, then Arsenal could be tempted to enter the transfer market in January.

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