Arsenal have completed the permanent signing of defender Piero Hincapié from Bayer Leverkusen for a reported €52 million, the club confirmed on Tuesday. The 24-year-old Ecuadorian international spent the 2023-24 season on loan with the Gunners, with the pre-agreed obligation to buy now having been fulfilled. Leverkusen will receive a total package of €52 million, comprised of a €6 million loan fee payment and a further €46 million for the permanent transfer.
Hincapié made 31 appearances across all competitions for Arsenal last season, quickly becoming a key component in Mikel Arteta’s defensive setup. He demonstrated versatility, featuring both at centre-back and left-back, and consistently impressed with his tackling and aerial ability. Prior to his loan spell in North London, Hincapié had established himself as a regular starter for Leverkusen, joining the Bundesliga side from Talleres in Argentina in 2021. He has earned 38 caps for Ecuador, representing his nation at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Despite the completion of the transfer, reports suggest Hincapié’s future at the Emirates Stadium may not be guaranteed. According to sources, Real Madrid have expressed interest in the defender, potentially offering Arsenal a significant profit on their recent investment. The Spanish giants are reportedly seeking defensive reinforcements ahead of the new season, and Hincapié’s profile – a young, versatile, and technically gifted centre-back – appears to align with their requirements.
Leverkusen finished sixth in the Bundesliga last season, securing a Champions League qualification spot. The sale of Hincapié represents a significant financial boost for the club, allowing them to reinvest in their squad under manager Xabi Alonso. Arsenal, meanwhile, will hope to retain Hincapié’s services as they continue to build a team capable of challenging for major honours, but the interest from Madrid presents a potential complication. Should Hincapié depart, Arsenal will likely need to identify a replacement before the start of the new Premier League campaign.
