Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso is reportedly set to block centre-back Piero Hincapie from joining Liverpool in the January transfer window.

Liverpool have been linked with several defenders in recent weeks following Joel Matip's ACL injury, which is expected to see him sidelined for the rest of the season.

Despite being a regular last season, Hincapie has struggled to secure a regular spot this term in Alonso's back line, which features Jonathan Tah, Edmond Tapsoba and Odilon Kossounou.

According to a report from Kicker, Alonso, who was a Liverpool player during his playing career, has made it clear that he will not allow The Reds to sign Hincapie in January with his side in the midst of a fight for the Bundesliga title.

The German outfit currently sit atop the Bundesliga standings, four points ahead of Bayern Munich, and still unbeaten after 16 league matches this season.

The report adds that the Leverkusen boss is also expected to thwart Chelsea's plans for a January move for Hincapie's defensive partner Jonathan Tah.

While Liverpool are leading the Premier League standings, they have been hit with several injuries already this season, including both their left-backs Andrew Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas, who are currently sidelined.

Hincapie's versatility is believed to be particularly attractive for The Reds, as he is equally comfortable at centre-back as he is in a full-back role.