Piero Hincapie
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal are preparing to deliver a second major transfer blow to Tottenham Hotspur this summer, with reports suggesting the Gunners are closing in on Bayer Leverkusen’s highly-rated defender Piero Hincapie.
According to transfer expert David Ornstein, the 23-year-old Ecuador international has informed Leverkusen of his desire to leave and is prioritising a move to Arsenal over other suitors, including Spurs. Negotiations are ongoing as Arsenal seek to secure a fee below the centre-back’s €60 million (£51.9m) release clause.
The development comes just days after Arsenal beat Tottenham to the signing of Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze in a £67.5m deal, leaving their north London rivals frustrated in the market. Now, Hincapié appears set to follow a similar path, with Arsenal looking to capitalise on their momentum by strengthening their defensive options ahead of the September 1 deadline.
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Posting on X, Ornstein reported: “Arsenal working to sign Piero Hincapié from Bayer Leverkusen – subject to player exits. 23yo defender told Bayer04 of wish to leave + prioritising Arsenal above others.” He added that the Gunners are attempting to negotiate a fee lower than Hincapié’s buyout clause, leveraging the player’s clear preference for a switch to the Emirates.
🚨BREAKING: Arsenal are set to hijack another Tottenham transfer.
The Gunners are working to sign Piero Hincapie from Bayer Leverkusen.
23-year-old wants to leave and is prioritising Arsenal over Tottenham.
Arsenal negotiating to pay lower than the €60million clause.… pic.twitter.com/VR9R9e9mKr
— now.arsenal (@now_arsenaI) August 25, 2025
Hincapie, who has made 116 appearances for Leverkusen since joining from Argentine club Talleres in 2021, has earned a reputation as one of the Bundesliga’s most consistent defenders.
Comfortable in both a back three and back four, his composure on the ball, aerial strength, and versatility at left-back make him a strong fit for Mikel Arteta’s system. Last season, he registered three goals and two assists across 45 matches, underlining his value at both ends of the pitch.
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Tottenham had also pursued the defender earlier this summer, with reports from Fabrizio Romano indicating they proposed a loan with an obligation to buy for around €60m. While Leverkusen initially rejected the approach, their stance has softened following Hincapié’s transfer request.
Sources close to the player suggest Arsenal’s Champions League status and Arteta’s ambitious project have given the Gunners a decisive edge. The Ecuadorian, who has already won 46 caps for his country, is said to be eager to test himself at the highest level in England.
For Leverkusen, the prospect of losing Hincapie adds to a summer of upheaval following the departures of Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Jonathan Tah, and Granit Xhaka. German outlet Bild reported that Hincapie was visibly emotional after Leverkusen’s last match, signalling the weight of his impending exit.
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