As the summer transfer window hurtles towards its frantic close on September 1st, Arsenal are making headlines once again with their pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen’s talented defender, Piero Hincapié. In a move that could further bolster Mikel Arteta’s already formidable backline, reports suggest that the Ecuadorian star has given the green light to a switch to the Emirates Stadium. Personal terms have been agreed upon for a long-term deal, and the Gunners are gearing up to submit an opening bid – potentially structured as a loan with an obligation to buy. This comes hot on the heels of ongoing negotiations to send Jakub Kiwior to FC Porto, paving the way for fresh defensive reinforcements.

Hincapié’s Preference for Arsenal: A Perfect Fit for Arteta’s Vision

It’s no secret that Piero Hincapié has long been admired by Arsenal’s recruitment team. The 23-year-old, who can operate seamlessly as a left-sided centre-back or even at left-back, embodies the modern defender profile that Arteta craves: ball-playing, versatile, and composed under pressure. Sources indicate that Hincapié himself favors a move to Arsenal, viewing it as the ideal step in his career progression. This isn’t just any signing; it’s one that Arteta sees as pivotal to maintaining Arsenal’s title challenge.

Hincapié’s journey to this point has been nothing short of impressive. Rising through the ranks at Independiente del Valle in Ecuador – the same academy that produced stars like Moisés Caicedo – he made waves at the 2021 Copa América before securing a move to Talleres in Argentina. His transfer to Bayer Leverkusen in 2021 for a modest fee marked the beginning of his European ascent. Since then, he’s racked up over 166 appearances for the Bundesliga side, contributing to their historic unbeaten domestic double in 2023-24 under Xabi Alonso. Internationally, the Ecuadorian has earned 46 caps and even notched a few goals, showcasing his attacking contributions from defense.

What makes Hincapié such an “ideal signing” for Arteta? Arsenal’s current defensive setup, featuring the rock-solid partnership of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães, is elite, but depth is crucial in a grueling Premier League season. Recent addition Cristhian Mosquera from Valencia adds quality, yet Hincapié’s left-footed prowess and ability to invert into midfield would provide tactical flexibility. Imagine him rotating with Riccardo Calafiori or covering for injuries – it’s a depth chart that could make Arsenal’s backline impenetrable.

The Deal Structure: Loan with Obligation to Buy, and the Kiwior Factor

Arsenal’s proposed opening bid is reportedly crafted with financial prudence in mind, especially after splashing over £200 million on signings like Eberechi Eze, Martin Zubimendi, Viktor Gyökeres, and others this summer. A loan deal with an obligation to buy – potentially activating Hincapié’s €60 million (£52 million) release clause next year – allows the club to spread the cost and comply with Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). Bayer Leverkusen, who’ve already lost key players like Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, and Granit Xhaka, are holding firm on their valuation but may relent given Hincapié’s expressed desire to leave. He was even spotted in tears after Leverkusen’s recent 2-1 defeat to Hoffenheim, seemingly bidding farewell to the BayArena faithful.

None of this happens without outgoing moves, though. Enter Jakub Kiwior, the Polish centre-back who’s been on the fringes of Arteta’s plans. FC Porto have tabled a loan offer with an obligation to buy for around €25-26 million, and Arsenal are close to sealing the deal. This transfer would not only free up squad space and wages but also generate funds to facilitate Hincapié’s arrival. Other potential exits, such as Fabio Vieira, Reiss Nelson, and Oleksandr Zinchenko, could further ease the path, but Kiwior’s departure appears imminent.

Why This Signing Could Define Arsenal’s Season

Arsenal’s summer has been transformative, pushing Arteta’s net spend towards the £1 billion mark since he took over in 2019. But it’s not just about the money – it’s about building a squad capable of ending Manchester City’s dominance. Hincapié’s arrival would signal Arsenal’s ambition, especially after a strong start to the season with a 5-0 thrashing of Leeds. With injuries to Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard not as severe as feared, the timing couldn’t be better.

Fans are buzzing about this potential coup, especially after hijacking Tottenham’s interest in Eberechi Eze earlier in the window. Hincapié, valued at €50 million by Transfermarkt and boasting an 86 overall rating on SoFIFA with 94 potential, is seen as a “warrior” who could evolve into one of the world’s best. His versatility would allow Arteta to tweak formations mid-game, and his youth ensures long-term value.

Of course, nothing’s done until the ink is dry. Leverkusen aren’t desperate to sell, and the final week of the window could bring twists. But if Arsenal pull this off, it won’t just be another signing – it’ll be a statement. The Gunners are building a dynasty, one strategic move at a time.

What do you think, Gooners? Is Hincapié the missing piece, or should Arsenal look elsewhere? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

Stay tuned for updates as this story develops. All information based on reports from reliable sources like Fabrizio Romano and David Ornstein.