FOOTBALL
Posted on June 24, 2026 10:45 pm | Updated on June 24, 2026 9:44 pm Real Madrid target Piero Hincapie as Arsenal resist summer sale.
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Real Madrid have made a formal enquiry for Arsenal defender Piero Hincapie, providing the latest Arsenal news ahead of a busy summer transfer window. The Spanish giants view the Ecuador international as a potential defensive addition, although Arsenal remain keen to keep him.
Mourinho targets versatile Arsenal defender Piero Hincapie
As reported by ESPN, Real Madrid have asked about Arsenal player Piero Hincapie and his situation. New coach Jose Mourinho wants a left-footed player who can feature at centre-back and full-back when required. Hincapie matches that need well, and Madrid see him as a strong option for their defence this summer.
As reported by Goal, Madrid have already spoken with Hincapie’s camp about a possible transfer this summer. Those talks show the Spanish club have taken a closer look at the Arsenal defender. Arsenal, however, have no plans to sell the Ecuador star during this window. He remains a key player for Mikel Arteta after playing a major role in the club’s strong season last year. His displays also strengthened his reputation as one of the most promising defenders in European football.
Hincapie’s stats for the 2025-26 season, as per FOTMOB:
Competitions Matches Goals Assists Duels Won Tackles Interceptions
Premier League 25 1 2 100 48 26
EFL Cup 3 0 0 16 8 1
Champions League 10 0 0 41 21 9
Arsenal’s valuation makes any deal complicated
As reported by BBC, Arsenal agreed a deal worth around £45 million to sign Hincapie on a full-time basis after last season. The defender has also agreed a five-year contract with the club. Fabrizio Romano reported earlier this year that Arsenal always planned to complete the move and keep him for the years ahead.
Hincapie played 39 games during his loan spell and won more than 60 percent of his duels. He also averaged two tackles, three ball recoveries, and four clearances per game for Arteta’s side during Arsenal’s Premier League-winning campaign. Those displays earned him a regular role in Arsenal’s team throughout the season.
Romano has also said that Arteta rates the Ecuador defender highly and wants him to stay. Arsenal are therefore unlikely to sell him unless another club makes a huge offer this summer. As reported by Goal, the Gunners would ask for between £70 million and £75 million, a valuation that reflects his growing importance under Arteta.
Madrid’s squad situation complicates the chase
Any move for a new defender at the Bernabeu this summer depends on Madrid selling players first. The club have already said they may take bids for Raul Asencio, and Mourinho backs that plan. Madrid also signed Ibrahima Konate earlier this window, giving Mourinho five first-team centre-backs to pick from. A move for Hincapie may prove hard unless Madrid first bring in cash through sales.
Nico Schlotterbeck looked like a cheaper choice earlier this summer, but a World Cup injury forced Madrid to end their pursuit. Ruben Dias of Manchester City and Alessandro Bastoni of Inter Milan also remain on the club’s list, although both teams would likely demand large fees for their players. Hincapie matches what Mourinho wants, while Arsenal have little reason to sell him this summer.
Arsenal have given Hincapie a five-year deal and expect to make his move final this summer. Madrid have already spoken to people close to the player, but the clubs have yet to hold direct talks. The Gunners still want to keep the defender, even as Madrid show more interest in him.
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Deepanjali Bhardwaj
Deepanjali Bhardwaj is a Sports Writer at Six Sports, covering both football and cricket with a focus on match developments, player performances, and key talking points across the two sports. Her work combines timely reporting with clear analysis, helping readers stay informed about major matches, tournaments, and emerging storylines in the football and cricket landscape. Through her coverage at Six Sports, Deepanjali contributes match reports, analytical pieces, and feature stories that highlight important moments, team strategies, and standout player performances across domestic and international competitions.
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