Arsenal has been busy this transfer window. Following three consecutive seasons of finishing second in their Premier League, the club now intends to make sure they get their hands on the coveted title. This intent is reflected in the transfers they’ve pulled off this summer. As we approach the end of the window, the links haven’t stopped. The Gunners are reportedly still making moves in the market.
Arsenal target transfer-bound defender
New reports from BILD suggest that Arsenal has shown concrete interest in Bayer Leverkusen defender Piero Hincapie. Hincapie, who can play as a Centre-Back and a Left-Back, was seen in tears after his match against Hoffenheim. This could suggest that he’s expecting to leave during the next few days.
The defender was key to Leverkusen’s unbeaten Bundesliga-winning season of 23/24. He featured regularly in the Xabi Alonso-led “Neverlusen” side. The Ecuadorian’s profile, age and versatility make him one of the hottest commodities in the defender market currently. His release clause of €60 million is likely to be triggered soon.
Arsenal’s rivals, Spurs, registered their interest earlier as they enquired about the player 10 days ago. The new report by BILD suggests that Chelsea, alongside Arsenal, has also shown concrete interest in the player.
Meanwhile, Leverkusen would like to hold on to the defender after losing its most valuable players already this summer. However, Hincapie’s wish to leave and a release clause being in place means Die Schwarzroten aren’t likely to interfere.
Arsenal close to record transfer deal for midfield prodigy
As per The Athletic, Arsenal are close to signing a new midfield prodigy in Victor Ozhianvuna. Still just 16, Victor’s potential move to Arsenal would see him become the League of Ireland’s most expensive player ever.
🚨🔴⚪️ Arsenal agree deal to sign 16 year old Irish talent Victor Ozhianvuna from Shamrock Rovers.
Deal done in principle, waiting to sign all documents but green light from all sides to get it sealed in January 2027, as @McDonnellDan reveals.
4.5 year contract for Ozhianvuna. pic.twitter.com/9i8myMO16P
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 24, 2025
Ozhianvuna currently plays as an Attacking Midfielder for Shamrock Rovers. He’s known for his exceptional dribbling ability and versatility. His current coach, Stephen Bradley, had this to say about the prodigy. “You’ll see in the next years what he’s about. He can play anywhere. I’ve seen him play as a 6, 10, and even up front. He’s a bit of a throwback in how he plays fearlessly. You can see that versatility will help him going forward.”
The Gunners have reportedly agreed on a deal worth €2 million for the young gem. However, Victor will not join the North London club immediately. The prodigy will sign a pre-contract agreement now and will officially join the team in January 2027, when he’ll be 18.
The big name
One player who has continuously been linked to Arsenal this summer is Real Madrid’s Rodrygo. The saga takes a new turn, though. Rodrygo never looked like he would make it into Xabi Alonso’s plan for this season. The entire Rodrygo saga’s catalyst was the fact that Alonso doesn’t favour Rodrygo. However, in a surprise move, Alonso started the Brazilian in his preferred Left Wing spot against Real Oviedo.
Considering Rodrygo’s willingness to fight for his spot at Madrid, this move by Alonso was seen as a sign of the winger staying with Los Blancos. However, another twist in the tale occurred just an hour into the game. Rodrygo was visibly upset after being substituted off the pitch, following a good performance from him thus far. Clubs like City and Arsenal will be hopeful that this is the breaking point for the Brazilian. As the deadline day approaches, this saga remains one to keep an eye.
Will Arsenal sign any more players?
Among the names mentioned, Victor Ozhianvuna is the closest to signing for the Gunners at the moment. However, his signing doesn’t affect the club in the short term. Rodrygo, on the other hand, looks the least likely. Arsenal has spent upwards of €290 million already, causing them to focus on sales to comply with PSR guidelines. A €100 million signing at this stage of the window seems unrealistic for them. Besides, Savinho’s transfer to Spurs looks likely once again, meaning Man City would return to the race for Rodrygo.
Hincapie seems to be a realistic target. Arsenal are close to selling Jakub Kiwior and Zinchenko. These sales would open up space for Hincapie, who can play in both positions where Arsenal will lose depth. However, the Gunners will need to ward off competition from Chelsea and Spurs to get the deal done.