Arsenal are accelerating their late push for Ecuadorian defensive powerhouse Piero Hincapié, with reports from The Athletic and AS suggesting the Gunners are edging closer to a dramatic swoop in the final days of the summer transfer window.
The 22-year-old Bayer Leverkusen centre-back, who recently asked to leave the German champions, has long been admired in North London, and Arsenal now appear ready to finally make their move.
A Strategic Gamble
Newly appointed sporting director Andrea Berta is spearheading negotiations, determined to bring the Ecuadorian international to the Emirates. However, Arsenal are carefully navigating the financial hurdles—chief among them Hincapié’s hefty €60 million release clause.
True to Berta’s transfer philosophy—“before you get in, let them out”—the club must first finalize outgoings before sanctioning such a blockbuster deal. Defender Jakub Kiwior is reportedly close to sealing a move to Porto, paving the way for Arsenal to shift their focus fully onto Hincapié.
A Long-Standing Target
Hincapié has been on Arsenal’s radar for several transfer windows. Sources close to the negotiations revealed:
> “Piero has always been a long-standing desire for Arsenal. Previous financial constraints forced the club to opt for more economical options, but now the opportunity to secure him has returned.”
Arsenal’s persistence reflects their intent to strengthen defensive depth, especially as Mikel Arteta eyes a Premier League title push and a deeper run in the Champions League this season.
Competition From Europe’s Elite
The race for Hincapié’s signature is fierce, with top European clubs circling. Atlético Madrid and Bayern Munich have monitored the situation, while Chelsea added him to their shortlist following Levi Colwill’s injury setback. Tottenham, too, are exploring a loan-to-buy structure.
Despite the competition, Arsenal’s project under Arteta, combined with Berta’s aggressive push, is said to have placed them in pole position.
Since arriving at Bayer Leverkusen in 2021 from Argentine side Talleres, Hincapié has evolved into one of the Bundesliga’s most dependable defenders. He has amassed 166 appearances for Leverkusen and earned 46 international caps for Ecuador, playing a crucial role in Xabi Alonso’s historic treble-winning campaign that delivered the Bundesliga, German Cup, and Super Cup last season.
His blend of composure, tactical intelligence, and versatility across the backline makes him a highly sought-after asset.
With the transfer window’s clock ticking, Arsenal fans are eagerly awaiting confirmation of what could be one of the club’s defining signings of the summer. If completed, the move would not only bolster Arteta’s defensive options but also underline the Gunners’ determination to compete with Europe’s elite.
As the drama unfolds, one thing is clear: Arsenal are all-in on Piero Hincapié—and the final days of the window could decide if he becomes the latest jewel in Arteta’s crown.
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