Arsenal sign defender Hincapie from Leverkusen

Piero Hincapie has an option to purchase from Bayer Leverkusen on a season-long loan.

Should they decide to sign the Ecuador international permanently next summer, the Gunners have agreed a fee of £45 million (52 million euros).

After joining Leverkusen in 2021, Hincapie made 166 appearances in all competitions and was a member of the team that won the German Cup and the Bundesliga between 2023 and 2024.

The 23-year-old, who will sport the number five, joins manager Mikel Arteta for the eighth time this summer, joining Viktor Gyokeres, Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard, Noni Madueke, Kepa Arrizabalaga, Cristhian Mosquera, and Eberechi Eze.

Arteta stated on the website of Arsenal that “Piero has a real physical presence with his versatility and tactical flexibility,” adding that “he gives us strong additional defensive options.”

He exhibits a strong combination of youth and maturity, according to the author. As we get going this season, he will strengthen and advance our squad.

Polish defender Jakub Kiwior has been given a season-long loan by the Gunners, with Hincapie acting directly in his place.