Arsenal’s summer transfer plans may already be taking shape after Bayer Leverkusen chief Simon Rolfes appeared to confirm that Piero Hincapié will complete a permanent move to the Emirates Stadium.
The Ecuador international is currently at Arsenal on loan from the Bundesliga club. However, an agreement is in place that could see the defender join permanently in the summer once the option to buy is activated.
Arsenal return to Premier League action this weekend against Everton while maintaining a seven point lead at the top of the table, and attention is also beginning to turn toward potential squad changes ahead of next season.
Leverkusen chief suggests Piero Hincapié Arsenal transfer will happen
Hincapié faced his parent club earlier this week when Arsenal drew 1–1 with Bayer Leverkusen in the first leg of their Champions League round of 16 tie.
Before the match, Leverkusen managing director Simon Rolfes spoke about the occasion and appeared to acknowledge that the defender’s long term future lies in north London.
“He’s still officially our player and is only on loan at the moment, but it will come to the transfer and I think for Piero it’s just as special too.” — Simon Rolfes speaking about Piero Hincapié
The statement suggests the move expected in the summer is progressing as planned, with Arsenal holding a reported £45m option to complete the transfer on a permanent basis.
Hincapié has been part of a defensive unit that has conceded just 22 Premier League goals this season, one of the strongest records in the division.
Arsenal transfer interest in Julián Álvarez develops
Arsenal are also being linked with a possible move for Atlético Madrid forward Julián Álvarez as the club continue assessing attacking reinforcements.
The Argentine striker has been in strong form in La Liga this season and recently scored twice in Atlético’s 5–2 victory over Tottenham.
Reports from Spain suggest Atlético would only consider offers above £86m for the 26 year old forward.
Barcelona have previously been mentioned as potential contenders for the striker, but Spanish sources indicate Atlético may be reluctant to sell to a direct domestic rival. That situation could leave Premier League clubs better positioned should a transfer discussion develop.
Arsenal continuing strong Premier League campaign
While transfer speculation continues to build around the club, Arsenal’s immediate focus remains on the Premier League title race.
Mikel Arteta’s side currently hold a seven point advantage at the top of the table and will look to strengthen that position when they host Everton this weekend.
Having followed Arsenal closely throughout the season, their defensive structure has been one of the most consistent aspects of the campaign. However, it remains too early to determine how much the squad could change once the transfer window opens.
Key Insights
- Leverkusen director Simon Rolfes suggested Piero Hincapié will join Arsenal permanently.
- The defender is currently on loan with a reported £45m option to buy.
- Arsenal have also been linked with Atlético Madrid striker Julián Álvarez.
- Atlético would reportedly demand more than £86m for the forward.
- Arsenal currently lead the Premier League by seven points.
What’s Next
Arsenal return to Premier League action against Everton this weekend as they continue their push for the title. The club will also prepare for the second leg of their Champions League round of 16 tie against Bayer Leverkusen. Meanwhile, recruitment staff are expected to continue monitoring potential summer transfer targets as the season progresses.
Could Arsenal strengthen both defence and attack during the upcoming summer transfer window?
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