September 01, (THEWILL) — Arsenal have confirmed the loan acquisition of Ecuador international defender, Piero Hincapie, from Bayer Leverkusen. The 23-year-old joins the north London club on a season-long temporary deal that includes an option to purchase for a total package worth €52 million, accompanied by a 10 percent sell-on clause. Personal terms have been agreed for Hincapie to sign a five-year contract with Arsenal next summer upon completion of the loan arrangement.
Manager Mikel Arteta expressed satisfaction with the acquisition, praising Hincapie’s physical attributes and tactical adaptability. The Spanish coach emphasised the defender’s versatility and character, describing him as possessing an ideal blend of youth and maturity. Hincapie will take the number five shirt at Emirates Stadium and is expected to strengthen Arsenal’s defensive options throughout the current campaign.
The transfer developed after Hincapie informed Leverkusen of his intention to depart during the summer window. Despite having extended his contract until 2029 in December, the defender sought a new challenge. He appeared emotional following Leverkusen’s recent 2-1 defeat to Hoffenheim and was omitted from the squad for Saturday’s 3-3 draw with Werder Bremen.
Hincapie established himself as a key figure during his four seasons at BayArena, making 166 appearances since arriving from Argentine club Talleres de Cordoba in 2021. He played 43 matches during Leverkusen’s remarkable 2023/2024 campaign, contributing to their unbeaten domestic record and Europa League final appearance under Xabi Alonso’s guidance.
Arsenal have simultaneously agreed terms with Porto for the departure of Jakub Kiwior, with the Polish defender set to leave for a guaranteed fee of €25 million that could rise to €27 million. The dual transactions reflect Arsenal’s strategic reshaping of their defensive resources, adding Hincapie’s versatility whilst allowing Kiwior to secure regular first-team football elsewhere.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
