Arsenal have reportedly agreed personal terms with Bayer Leverkusen defender Piero Hincapie, and are set to submit a bid to the Bundesliga club as Arteta look to add better competition for Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba.
Softfootball reported earlier that The Ecuador international emerged as a top transfer target for Mikel Arteta’s side during the final week of the summer window and they are eager to finalise a deal before the end of Deadline Day on 1 September.
Chelsea and Tottenham have both been linked with the 23-year-old defender, though the Blues are not expected to move for another centre-back before the window closes.
Spurs meanwhile, remain focused on striking a deal for Man City winger Savinho, with Arsenal reportedly attempting to hijack the transfer just as they did in the pursuit of Eberechi Eze.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano via his X handle, the Gunners have now agreed terms with the Ecuador star, and are aiming to finalise a deal with Bayer Leverkusen on a loan deal with an obligation to buy . The post reads:
“Piero Hincapié has said yes to Arsenal and personal terms have been agreed, long term deal ready!
Understand Hincapié favors #AFC and also seen as ideal signing by Arteta.
Arsenal prepare opening bid, likely loan + obligation to buy… with Kiwior to FC Porto, soon”
Arsenal’s defensive reshuffle will almost certainly lead to departures. Jakub Kiwior is tipped to head to FC Porto in a loan deal with an obligation to buy for around £25m, a figure that would cover nearly half the cost of Hincapie fee.
Oleksandr Zinchenko is also thought to be edging closer to an exit, meaning Mikel Arteta could revamp his defensive unit while ensuring the balance sheet remains stable.
Beyond the tactical reasons, the pursuit of Hincapie sends a strong message. Arsenal aren’t just strengthening; they’re doing so at Tottenham’s expense. Each hijacked transfer has ramped up the psychological battle between the north London rivals.
