Arsenal Move Closer To Signing Piero Hincapié As Talks With Bayer Leverkusen Intensify

Arsenal are directly negotiating with Bayer Leverkusen for Piero Hincapié. They have agreed on personal terms with the defender and want to secure him on loan with an obligation to buy. Completing this deal could allow Jakub Kiwior to join FC Porto.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen are in active discussions for Piero Hincapié. The 23-year-old Ecuadorian has agreed terms with Arsenal. He would prefer a structured loan with a mandatory purchase. Leverkusen need to accept the payment structure. While the German side has insisted on the full €60 million release clause, a report earlier indicated that Tottenham proposed a loan with an obligation to buy for approximately €60 million. If Arsenal finalizes the transfer, Jakub Kiwior could join FC Porto with a similar loan-to-buy arrangement. Negotiations are reportedly advanced on this front since Porto even had to postpone Kiwior’s travel due to ongoing uncertainty around the Hincapié move.

WHY ARSENAL TARGET HINCAPIE?

Arsenal have had a strong start to the Premier League season by winning their opening two matches and keeping two clean sheets. They have invested heavily in their squad this summer, spending around £270 million. This money was spent to strengthen multiple positions, including defense. Departures are expected, with Kiwior among the players set to leave if Hincapié arrives. Hincapié is equally adept at centre-back and left-sided roles. He is seen as an upgrade and can boost an already solid defensive unit. Negotiations are critical as Leverkusen remain firm on his valuation.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR ARSENAL, LEVERKUSEN AND PORTO?

In their next match, Arsenal are set to face Liverpool this weekend before the international break. They are currently top of the table, having scored six goals without conceding any, level on points with Tottenham and Liverpool. Bayer Leverkusen finished as runner-ups in the Bundesliga last season but have started poorly after an opening day loss to Hoffenheim. FC Porto are fighting to reclaim the Primeira Liga title as they sit on top of the table after three rounds. If the Hincapié transfer is approved by the time Kiwior completes his move to Porto, all three clubs will have major changes in their defensive line-up before the upcoming fixtures. Their decisions over the next 48 hours could determine the course of their seasons.