Arsenal are stepping up efforts to land Bayer Leverkusen defender Piero Hincapié before the transfer window closes, with hopes of finalising an agreement by the weekend.
The Gunners are looking to strike a deal for around €50m, below the Ecuadorian’s €60m release clause. According to sources in Germany, there exists a verbal pact between Hincapié and senior club officials that could allow him to leave for a reduced package.
Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta has set an internal 48-hour deadline to resolve talks with Leverkusen, with concerns that dragging negotiations too close to deadline day could jeopardise Jakub Kiwior’s move to Porto.
Arsenal’s preference is for a loan with obligation to buy, allowing the transaction to be booked on next year’s financial records, although an outright purchase is not ruled out if Leverkusen lower the fee.
Hincapié’s Position on a Move
“Piero Hincapié has rejected approaches from other clubs and is only focused on Arsenal after Andrea Berta made contact.” — Source close to negotiations
The 21-year-old centre-back is understood to be pushing for the transfer and has already given the green light to personal terms. His insistence has effectively forced Leverkusen to deal exclusively with Arsenal.
Why Arsenal Want Hincapié
Arsenal’s defensive depth has been tested in last season, with injuries to William Saliba and Gabriel highlighting the need for another left-sided centre-back.
Kiwior’s impending move to Porto is contingent on Hincapié arriving, and Andrea Berta views the Ecuadorian as a long-term piece of Arsenal’s defensive puzzle — capable of playing centre-back, left-back and even stepping into midfield phases.
Piero Hincapié – 2024/25 Season Stats
| Stat (2024/25) | Piero Hincapié |
|---|---|
| Appearances | — |
| Goals | — |
| Assists | — |
| Pass Accuracy | –% |
source: sofascore match data – 27 August 2025
The Ecuadorian is highly regarded for his positional discipline, left-footed balance and progressive passing, making him an ideal fit for Mikel Arteta’s system.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William believes this deal is critical for Arsenal’s balance:
“Hincapié is tailor-made for Arteta’s back line. His left-footed profile complements Gabriel and Saliba, while his composure under pressure gives Arsenal greater build-up security. At €50m, given his age and contract, this is smart business compared to paying the full €60m release clause.”
He added: “The key is timing. Berta’s decision to impose a 48-hour deadline shows Arsenal have learned from past windows where they hesitated. If they can close before the weekend, it strengthens the squad while unlocking Kiwior’s sale to Porto.”
Key Insights
- Arsenal pushing for €50m deal for Hincapié.
- Verbal pact could allow him to leave below his €60m release clause.
- Andrea Berta has set a 48-hour deadline to conclude talks.
- Arsenal prefer loan+obligation, but outright purchase possible.
- Jakub Kiwior to Porto depends on Hincapié arriving.
What’s Next for Arsenal?
Talks with Leverkusen are continuing, with Arsenal aiming to finalise terms before the weekend. If successful, Hincapié could be unveiled early next week, allowing Kiwior’s switch to Porto to be signed off in parallel.
Is Hincapié the missing defensive piece Arsenal need for a genuine title challenge?
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