Hincapie is an upgrade to what Arsenal had previously

Arsenal strengthened their defensive line in the recent transfer window by signing Piero Hincapie as a replacement for Jakub Kiwior. The move came after Kiwior struggled to secure a consistent place in the first team, with Gabriel and William Saliba firmly established as the club’s central defensive pairing. Unable to dislodge either, the Polish defender sought a new challenge, and this summer FC Porto reached an agreement with Arsenal to take him on.

That departure allowed the Gunners to move for a successor, and they turned to Bayer Leverkusen’s Hincapie. The Ecuadorian has built a strong reputation as one of the most talented young defenders in European football. Arsenal viewed him as a player capable of adding quality immediately while also offering long-term promise, making him an appealing acquisition at this stage of his career.

Hincapie’s Profile and Achievements

Hincapie arrives in north London with considerable experience despite his young age. His performances during the 2023–2024 season were particularly impressive, as he played a key role in Bayer Leverkusen’s historic domestic double. That unbeaten campaign highlighted his composure, athleticism and ability to perform consistently at the highest level. For Arsenal, signing a defender of his calibre represents an important step in reinforcing depth and quality in central defence.

The club see him not only as a replacement but as an upgrade, capable of filling multiple roles within Mikel Arteta’s tactical system. His versatility allows him to operate in different positions and adapt to varied formations, qualities that the Arsenal manager values highly.