Arsenal Sign Piero Hincapié from Bayer Leverkusen on Loan with Option to Buy

Arsenal have signed Piero Hincapié from Bayer Leverkusen. The Ecuadorian centre-back joins on a season-long loan, with Arsenal having the option to buy him permanently for £45 million next summer, as confirmed in recent reports by Fabrizio Romano.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Hincapié joined Arsenal just before the transfer window closed. The 23-year-old is Arsenal’s eighth summer signing after spending over €300 million. He fills a gap in the squad after Jakub Kiwior’s sale to Porto. Hincapié is expected to be backup for Gabriel Magalhães as the left-sided centre-back but can also play as a left-back. Last season, he made 28 Bundesliga appearances, helping Bayer Leverkusen to a third-place finish.

WHY IT MATTERS FOR ARSENAL

Arsenal have spent heavily this summer to challenge Manchester City. Mikel Arteta’s side finished second last season with 74 points, just ten points behind the leaders. Hincapié provides more options as Arsenal compete in the Premier League and Champions League. Arteta prefers defenders that are comfortable in different positions, and Hincapié is another addition to Arsenal’s solid backline.

WHAT COMES NEXT?

Hincapié is expected to be available for Arsenal’s next match against Nottingham Forest in 2 weeks’ time. The Gunners are currently fourth in the Premier League, just three point behind leaders Liverpool. Arsenal’s defensive options are stretched after Kiwior’s exit, so Hincapié’s arrival is timely. If they integrate him quickly, Arteta’s side can maintain their push for titles this season.