Arsenal are eyeing their eighth signing of the summer transfer window.
The Gunners have had a productive summer with the focus primarily on bolstering the frontline.
However, they have also concentrated on strengthening other positions.
Cristhian Mosquera was signed to reinforce the central defensive department, but the club are determined to land another centre-back before the transfer deadline.
According to reputed journalist Fabrizio Romano, the Gunners are now in direct talks with Bayer Leverkusen for Piero Hincapie with personal terms agreed with him.
Arsenal prefer a loan with an obligation to buy. A deal depends on whether the structure of the proposal will be approved by Leverkusen. Jakub Kiwior can join Porto if Hincapie arrives.
Arsenal pushing to land Hincapie before deadline
The 23-year-old has been linked with a Premier League move on many occasions. Tottenham Hotspur have been mentioned as his suitors in the past, but Hincapie clearly prefers Arsenal.
The Ecuador international has now given the green light for a transfer to the Emirates Stadium, and the onus is on the Gunners to try and persuade Leverkusen into a potential agreement.
Hincapie, who can operate as a central defender or at left-back, has a €60 million (£52m) release clause in his contract, but has reportedly asked Leverkusen to accept €45m (£39m) for his late transfer.
Arsenal could be willing to pay a similar package for his services, but Leverkusen could play hardball over the final price tag, considering they barely have time left to pursue a proper replacement.
The Gunners are expected to negotiate a year-long loan with a buy obligation, given they have already spent over £250 million on seven signings during the ongoing summer transfer window.
Hopefully, the club can sort out a deal with the former German champions. In that case, Kiwior could make the switch to Porto on loan with an obligation to buy for around €30m (£26m).
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