Piero Hincapié Bids Farewell to Bayer Leverkusen as Arsenal Move Nears

Piero Hincapié has said goodbye to Bayer Leverkusen fans. The Ecuadorian defender is set to join Arsenal within the next 24 hours. The transfer marks a big move for all involved, as Hincapié prepares to start a new chapter in the Premier League.

FAREWELL TO LEVERKUSEN

Hincapié, 23, shared an emotional message for Leverkusen supporters as he prepares to leave after three years at the club. He was a key figure in their defense, contributing significantly to their success. Hincapié helped Bayer Leverkusen win their first-ever Bundesliga title two seasons ago, as well as reaching the Europa League final. Leverkusen finished second in the Bundesliga last season, securing Champions League football and ending thirteen points behind Bayern Munich, and reached the quarter-finals of the Champions League. Hincapié played 34 matches across all competitions for the team last season.

ARSENAL SEAL DEFENSIVE REINFORCEMENT

Arsenal have agreed a deal for a season-long loan with an option to buy Hincapié for £45 million next summer, as reported. The Gunners struggled with defensive injuries last season, which saw them finish third in the Premier League and exit the Champions League at the Round of 16. Hincapié’s versatility—capable of playing both centre-back and left-back—makes him an ideal addition to Arsenal’s squad, as manager Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his defensive options ahead of the new season. Arsenal has reached a personal agreement with Hincapié on a long-term contract, confirming a line of communication that has facilitated this transaction.

WHAT COMES NEXT?

Arsenal will hope that Hincapié can adapt quickly to English football. The Gunners continue their new Premier League campaign next Sunday against champions Liverpool at Anfield. In the coming weeks, Hincapié is expected to fight for a starting spot alongside William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães, as Arsenal aim to close the gap to Liverpool, who finished ten points ahead last season. Meanwhile, Leverkusen, now without their defensive star, begin their own campaign against Frankfurt as they aim to reclaim the Bundesliga title.