Arsenal are pushing hard to wrap up a deal for Bayer Leverkusen defender Piero Hincapie, with sporting director Andrea Berta setting a strict internal deadline to avoid any last-minute chaos on deadline day. Sources close to the talks have told Hand of Arsenal that Berta wants a conclusion within the next 48 hours, ensuring the Gunners are not left scrambling for a replacement for Jakub Kiwior, who is closing in on a move to FC Porto.
There is a secret pact which could lower Piero Hincapie fee below release clause
One key detail emerging from negotiations is the existence of a verbal pact between Hincapie and senior Leverkusen officials, allowing him to leave for below his €60m release clause under certain conditions. Arsenal are fully aware of this arrangement, with Berta aiming to structure a package worth closer to €50m or even slightly less to get the deal across the line.
Talks between the clubs remain active, with both Arsenal and Leverkusen leaning towards a loan with obligation-to-buy formula. This would allow both clubs to record the transfer fee on next year’s financial records, providing greater flexibility in the current window. However, different payment structures are still being discussed to satisfy both parties.
Hincapie rejects rivals after Berta’s move
Importantly for Arsenal, Hincapie has already turned down interest from other major clubs after Andrea Berta made contact earlier this summer. His preference to join Arsenal effectively forced Leverkusen to deal directly with the North London club. While the Ecuadorian has been a long-term target, Berta’s existing relationship with his camp, dating back to his time at Atlético Madrid, made it straightforward to shut the door on rival offers, including from Tottenham Hotspur.
With Kiwior now Porto-bound, Hincapie’s versatility to play both as a centre-back and left-back makes him an ideal fit for Mikel Arteta’s plans. His left-footed profile adds balance to the backline, and his aggressive yet composed defensive style has already been earmarked as a natural upgrade in key areas of Arsenal’s build-up play. Securing his signing before deadline day would represent a major win for Berta and underline Arsenal’s intent in the final week of the window.
