Piero Hincapié Agrees Terms With Arsenal Ahead Of Major Defensive Transfer

Piero Hincapié has agreed personal terms with Arsenal. The club is ready to make an opening bid to sign the Ecuadorian defender from Bayer Leverkusen before the transfer window closes. As reported, Bayer Leverkusen will not sell him unless his €70 million release clause is met.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Arsenal have reached a personal agreement with Hincapié on a long-term contract. They view him as a perfect signing for manager Mikel Arteta and are working quickly to secure the deal. Sources confirm Arsenal prefer an initial loan with an obligation to buy. Hincapié has privately asked Bayer Leverkusen to consider Arsenal’s offer and not stick to his €60 million release clause.

Jakub Kiwior is expected to move to FC Porto as part of the defensive reshuffle. According to reports, Arsenal are ready to make a new offer for Kiwior as they want at least £20 million to boost their budget for a prominent left winger. The Gunners have also added Cristhian Mosquera from Valencia. Hincapié rejected interest from Tottenham and another Premier League club, hoping to move to North London instead.

ARSENAL AND LEVERKUSEN: THE SEASON SO FAR

Arsenal have started the Premier League campaign strongly. They are currently in second place, level on points with both Liverpool and Tottenham, the three only teams to have a winning start to the season. Their defense has kept two clean sheets in the opening three games. Arsenal’s strong start puts them ahead of the competition, despite sitting at the top of the table on goal difference as of now.

Bayer Leverkusen lost their Bundesliga opener. They lost 2-1 at home to Hoffenheim, and are already three points behind teams like Eintracht Frankfurt and Bayern Munich, and Hincapié has played every minute so far this season. His passing and ability to play both at centre-back and left-back have impressed scouts. Hincapié helped Bayer Leverkusen win their first league title two seasons ago, further solidifying his value to the team.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR ARSENAL?

The signing could strengthen Arsenal’s defense. Hincapié’s versatility is important, with Arteta needing extra cover after losing Jurrien Timber to injury earlier in the summer. Kiwior’s expected exit to Porto would make room and help fund the move.

Arsenal’s next match is against champions Liverpool, who are also top of the league with two wins in two matches, as the Gunners try to stay at the top. If the transfer happens quickly, Hincapié could make his debut soon, giving Arsenal another option as their schedule gets busy with Premier League, Champions League, and domestic cup matches.