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Chelsea And Arsenal Battling For Bundesliga Star With£52M Release Clause Who“Wants”Move Before Window Shuts

Chelsea have joined the race to secure the signature of Bayer Leverkusen defender Piero Hincapie, according to reports in Germany.

Tabloid Bild claim that both the Blues and Arsenal are weighing up moves for the Ecuadorian international ahead of the transfer deadline next week.

It has been confirmed by multiple sources that Hincapie has a €60m (£52m) release clause in his contract.

That figure has likely encouraged teams hoping to make an approach for the centre-back before the window shuts next Monday.

Hincapie “wants to leave” Leverkusen

The 23-year-old was pictured crying and waving goodbye to fans after Leverkusen’s 2-1 defeat to Hoffenheim at the weekend.

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Journalist Fabrizio Romano has since confirmed that Hincapie “wants to leave” the Bundesliga side this summer, although he claims another Premier League club has entered the fray to sign him.

Tottenham are said to have offered a loan deal with an obligation to buy for €60m. Leverkusen are not obliged to accept the bid despite it being the same figure as his buyout fee. Spurs would have to pay the money up front now for the clause to be triggered.

Will Chelsea make an offer?

Head coach Enzo Maresca has publicly urged his club to sign a replacement for Levi Colwill. The defender is expected to miss the rest of the season after picking up an ACL injury before the season began.

Like Colwill, Hincapie is left-footed and can be deployed at left-back, in addition to playing in his most natural position as a centre-half.

However, the Blues’ hierarchy have made it clear that they are prioritising other areas to strengthen. The London club are hopeful of bringing in Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho and RB Leipzig attacking midfielder Xavi Simons over the next week or so.

Read more about the Chelsea First Team Squad for 2025/26 here

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