Arsenal have snapped up Piero Hincapie on a season-long loan. There’s a £45m option to make the move permanent, while also handing him the No.5 shirt.
A record summer ends for Arsenal with Piero Hincapie
Arsenal closed their transfer window with a big boost as Piero Hincapie arrived. The centre back, just 23, comes in on a loan move. The Gunners have the option to buy him next summer for £45m.
His arrival has been named the “final piece of the puzzle” by the club. It is the end of a huge summer where Mikel Arteta’s side spent more than £250m on fresh talent. Big names had already bolstered the squad. But, the addition of a proven Bundesliga winner gives the squad a stronger spine. The deal also made Jakub Kiwior’s loan exit to Porto. The Polish defender is no longer part of Arteta’s immediate plans.
Fans happy with the window
Arsenal fans needed a lift after last weekend’s 1-0 defeat to Liverpool, and Hincapie’s arrival gives exactly that. His ability to play in different roles at the back probably will be important. This is especially true with William Saliba currently undergoing rehab for an ankle injury.
The left-footer has made over 100 appearances for Leverkusen already. He was an important member of the line up that claimed the Bundesliga title from head coach Xabi Alonso. Having got the number 5 shirt, he is likely to settle in quickly after the break.
On the outgoing side, Albert Sambi Lokonga sealed a permanent switch to Hamburg. Fabio Vieira also joined the same club on loan.
Author’s Opinion:
Piero Hincapie’s signing looks like a smart bit of business. Arsenal finally have a backline with options across the board. If he adapts quickly, this move could be the one that makes head coach Mikel Arteta’s squad title-ready.