Arsenal approach Piero Hincapié’s agent with player keen on the move

Arsenal have stepped up their defensive recruitment strategy by opening talks with the representatives of Bayer Leverkusen centre-back Piero Hincapié. The Ecuadorian international has been on the Gunners’ radar for some time, and reports suggest he is now seriously considering a switch to North London. Sources close to the player claim Hincapié is “very attracted” by Arsenal’s long-term project under Mikel Arteta, making personal terms a likely non-issue.

Although no official bid has yet been submitted, Arsenal’s initial approach is being described as exploratory but positive. The Gunners are laying the groundwork for a potential move, with negotiations currently focused on the player’s side. Hincapié, who played a pivotal role in Leverkusen’s Bundesliga-winning campaign last season, is understood to be open to the idea of testing himself in the Premier League.

However, Arsenal’s pursuit of the defender is not without complications. The club must first resolve the futures of Jakub Kiwior and Oleksandr Zinchenko before committing fully to the deal. Kiwior is heavily linked with a move to FC Porto, while Zinchenko could be set for an exit after falling behind in Arteta’s defensive pecking order. Both departures are seen as crucial pieces of the puzzle that would free up space and funds for Hincapié’s arrival.

Tottenham Hotspur, meanwhile, have already tried and failed to secure the centre-back. Spurs submitted a proposal worth €60 million structured as a loan with an obligation to buy spread across four years. Bayer Leverkusen immediately rejected the bid, insisting on a more straightforward offer and making it clear that the player will only leave under the right conditions.

This rejection has opened the door for Arsenal to make their move. While Tottenham remain interested, Hincapié is believed to prefer Arsenal’s project, particularly Arteta’s track record of developing young players into world-class talents. For the 22-year-old, the idea of becoming part of a defensive core alongside William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães is an appealing prospect.

Arsenal’s growing ambition in the transfer market reflects their intent to challenge Manchester City for the Premier League title once again. Last season’s near miss highlighted the importance of squad depth, particularly in defence where injuries at key moments disrupted Arteta’s rhythm. Adding a versatile, left-footed defender like Hincapié would not only strengthen Arsenal’s backline but also provide much-needed competition in multiple roles.

Hincapié’s style of play is another factor that appeals to Arsenal’s recruitment team. Comfortable on the ball, aggressive in duels, and tactically disciplined, he fits the mould of a modern centre-back capable of thriving in Arteta’s possession-based system. His ability to step out of defence and progress the ball would add a new dimension to Arsenal’s build-up play, while his defensive awareness makes him a reliable partner for Saliba.

Yet, Arsenal know they must act quickly if they are to secure the deal. Other European clubs have been monitoring Hincapié, and Bayer Leverkusen are under no pressure to sell unless their valuation is met. With the Bundesliga champions keen to keep their squad intact ahead of a Champions League campaign, Arsenal may need to present a convincing financial package sooner rather than later.

For now, the domino effect is the key. Kiwior’s potential departure to Porto seems the most advanced of the two exits required to open the door, but Zinchenko’s situation is equally important. Should both moves materialise in the coming days, Arsenal are expected to accelerate their pursuit of Hincapié and table a formal offer.

The race for the Ecuadorian star is far from over, but Arsenal appear to be in a strong position. With the player eager to join and personal terms unlikely to be a stumbling block, much will depend on whether the Gunners can satisfy Leverkusen’s demands. If they do, Arteta could soon welcome one of Europe’s most promising defenders to the Emirates Stadium.

In a summer where Arsenal have already shown intent, moving for Hincapié would underline their commitment to building a squad capable of competing on all fronts. The coming weeks promise to be decisive, and supporters will be watching closely to see if the club can turn early interest into a concrete deal.