Arsenal are on the verge of completing their third major signing of the summer as Piero Hincapie edges closer to a move from Bayer Leverkusen. The Ecuadorian defender has already travelled to London to undergo his medical ahead of a switch to the Emirates Stadium.The transfer is being structured as an initial loan deal with an option to buy for around £45 million next summer. Arsenal are expected to trigger that clause, making Hincapie a long-term addition to Mikel Arteta’s squad.
Why Arsenal want Hincapie
At just 23 years old, Hincapie offers both immediate quality and future potential. Comfortable at centre-back and capable of covering at left-back, he gives Arteta tactical flexibility while strengthening an area where Arsenal have lacked depth. His aggressive style and ability to play out from the back have long made him a target for the club’s recruitment team.
Kiwior to make way
Hincapie’s arrival will pave the way for Jakub Kiwior to depart. The Poland international is finalising a move to FC Porto on an initial loan deal that will become permanent in 2026. The total package is worth around £23 million, ensuring Arsenal recoup a sizeable fee for a player who struggled to establish himself in North London.
Kiwior was left out of the matchday squad against Liverpool at the weekend, a clear signal that his departure was imminent. Arsenal sources remain confident both the Hincapie and Kiwior deals will be completed before Monday night’s 7pm BST deadline.
Busy Deadline Day expected
Hincapie’s signing follows the arrivals of Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace and Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, giving Arsenal further depth as they aim to push Manchester City and Liverpool in the Premier League title race.
With less than 24 hours to go until the transfer window closes, Arsenal’s business is not expected to stop here, with potential outgoings still being finalised across the squad.
