Arsenal are stepping up their efforts to land Bayer Leverkusen defender Piero Hincapie as part of Mikel Arteta’s push to bolster the backline before the transfer window slams shut.
The Gunners have made signing a left-sided defender a top priority, and the 23-year-old Ecuador international is firmly in their sights. According to sources close to BBC Sport, Arsenal’s recruitment team have been closely monitoring Hincapie’s performances for some time.
“Hincapie has a 60m euro (£52m) release clause and is keen to leave the German club before the transfer window closes.”
That clause has drawn attention from top European sides, but Arsenal appear to be leading the chase. The defender played a crucial role in Leverkusen’s historic 2023-24 season, helping the club clinch both the Bundesliga title and the German Cup.
Since arriving in Germany in 2021, Hincapie has made 166 appearances across all competitions. His development has been steady and impressive, attracting scouts from across Europe.
Leverkusen’s success last season has only increased his stock—and Arsenal see him as the ideal fit for their defensive puzzle.
Arsenal have already spent over £200 million this summer, but they’re not done yet. As new signings settle in, the club are actively working to offload players to balance the books and trim the squad.
Among those made available for transfer:
- Fabio Vieira
- Reiss Nelson
- Oleksandr Zinchenko
There’s also interest in Polish centre-back Jakub Kiwior, with Porto believed to be weighing up a potential move.
Arsenal is keen to wrap up a deal for Hincapie quickly, seeing him as a long-term solution to their defensive needs. With his willingness to move and a clear release clause in place, the stage is set for a potential Emirates switch before deadline day.
Despite reports, Tottenham are not currently pursuing Hincapie, sources confirm. While Spurs have been loosely linked, there’s no active interest from the white half of North London at this stage.
That gives Arsenal a clearer path though in football, nothing’s guaranteed until the paperwork’s signed.
As the clock ticks down on the summer transfer window, Hincapie’s future looks increasingly tied to the Premier League. Arsenal fans will be watching closely.
