Arsenal’s 2024/25 season ended in disappointment as they finished a distant second in the Premier League and lost to Paris Saint-Germain in Europe. Mikel Arteta has been active in the summer transfer window, bringing in Viktor Gyokeres, Martin Zubimendi and others. It appears the Gunners’ business is not done, with Fabrizio Romano reporting that Arsenal have made an official approach to Bayer Leverkusen for defender Piero Hincapie.
Arsenal have started the season in good form, winning both their opening Premier League games. It appears Arteta wants to strengthen his defence, making an approach for Piero Hincapie, who wishes to leave Bayer Leverkusen. No official bid has come from Arsenal, with the exits of Jakub Kiwior and Oleksandr Zinchenko key to the deal for Hincapie, who has also attracted a bid from Tottenham Hotspur. Hincapie is reportedly keen on the move, with personal terms not expected to be an issue. Once the departures of Kiwior and Zinchenko are finalised, the deal could progress quickly.
The 23-year-old Ecuadorian will provide strength in depth for Arteta. He’s a quick defender who times his tackles impressively, and has previously been described as a “warrior.” Hincapie is comfortable with the ball at his feet and bringing it out of defence. This will be vital in providing an extra body in midfield when attacking. He also brings versatility, being able to play in central defence or at left-back.
He provides physicality, which will be a much-needed asset in the Premier League. Strong in the air and strong on the ground, Hincapie is a vital defender for any team. Arsenal have proven to be defensively solid with Gabriel and Saliba at the heart of it, but bringing in a player with the potential of Hincapie could be a vitally important move by Arteta, who will be eager to challenge on all fronts this season.
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