There’s a growing buzz in the football world- Piero Hincapie, especially from Arsenal. A talented 23-year-old Ecuadorian from Bayer Leverkusen is drawing serious interest from top Premier League clubs. Fans and pundits are watching closely as the transfer window heats up.
Arsenal Leads the Race for Piero Hincapie:
Arsenal has taken a clear lead in pursuing Hincapie. The Gunners have agreed personal terms with him, which is a vital step forward. Not only that, but reports confirm that Hincapie has told Leverkusen he wants the move. This shows he’s not only valued—but also eager.
Arsenal is preparing a deal structured as a loan with an obligation to buy, mirroring the model used for David Raya in the past. This helps Arsenal to spread out payments and gives flexibility.
Still, one step needs to be taken first. Arsenal must clear space in their squad. Central defender Jakub Kiwior is expected to move to FC Porto under similar terms (loan + buy obligation). Once that happens, the path will be clearer for Hincapie’s arrival.
Who is Piero Hincapie?
Piero Hincapié, aged 23, is one of the brightest Ecuadorian footballers. He is a technically sound centre-back who made himself known in Europe within a very brief period. He began his professional career at Independiente del Valle. His performances as a young player amazed talent spotters and other clubs. In 2020 he signed with Argentina’s Talleres. He then transferred to Bayer Leverkusen in that year. They saw his potential as a stalwart in their defense. Today, he is a brick in the Bundesliga and a regular choice for the Ecuador national team. He represented Ecuador at the 2022 World Cup.
Hincapié’s playing style combines composure and aggression. A central defender by choice, he is content to play on the left. That versatility makes him valuable in most defensive systems. His play consists of anticipating attackers ahead of their movement. Hincapie does not panic under pressure. When in possession, he is constructive and dependable, often coming up to assist in the attack. As a young player, he possesses defensive maturity, solid in one-on-one and in the air. Hincapié is renowned personality of the new era of South American defenders. The 23-year-old is technically talented, agile.
Release Clause and Negotiations:
Hincapie’s contract includes a €60 million release clause (around £52 million). Arsenal is likely attempt to lower that fee. Hincapie’s clear desire to move can help Arsenal to force Leverkusen to negotiate and agree on a lower fee.
Rival Interest:
Arsenal is not the only club chasing him. Tottenham has also made a move. They’ve reportedly submitted a proposal similar to Arsenal’s: a loan with an obligation to buy for roughly €60 million, but with the payment delayed until 2026.
Other top clubs, including Chelsea and even Liverpool, had been linked earlier—but Arsenal now appears to be ahead.
Why Arsenal Wants Him?
Hincapie offers tactical versatility. He is comfortable at centre-back and left-back. He brings agility, pace, and strong ball-handling. The Ecuadorian is aggressive in duels, loves to push forward in attacks, and often supports build-up play from deep.
As a modern “wide centre-back,” he fits Arsenal’s style under Mikel Arteta—compact, dynamic, and attack-minded. With Riccardo Calafiori’s injury history and Myles Lewis-Skelly playing out of position, Hincapie would offer much-needed depth and balance.
Author’s Insight: Final Steps Ahead
Still to come:
Arsenal must get Kiwior’s move to Porto done.
They need to finalize the deal with Leverkusen, especially on payment structure and any add-ons.
The formal opening bid is expected soon, followed by formalities like contracts and possibly medical tests
If all these things are done, Arsenal can secure a high-quality, young defender. Piero Hincapie will fit in their future plans perfectly.