The latest big buzz in the English Premier League transfer window is regarding Arsenal's reported interest in a big signing from the Bundesliga. Defender Piero Hincapie, who has had a stirring impact Bayer Leverkusen, especially during their title win in the 2023-24 season, has caught the eye of the Gunners who are set to prepare an initial bid for the defender. It must be remembered that Tottenham Hotspur had initially identified Hincapie as one of their primary targets during this transfer window.
The latest reports suggest that the Ecuadorian has expressed a clear preference for Arsenal, should it be a decision to be made between the two sides. Therefore, it is only a matter of time before a bid is submitted to Hincapie's agents but there is another twist to this story. Arsenal's sudden interest in Hincapie has developed due to their expectancy around Polish defender Jakob Kiwior who is likely to make a move to FC Porto. Currently, the Portugese club is making earnest attempts to ensure the the Kiwior deal is sorted out at the earliest. So, Arsenal hopes to then have Hincapie as a potential replacement for Kiwior when the Polishman leaves the Emirates.
Hincapie has a release cause of €60m, which is another aspect that Arsenal will have to consider while they strategise their financial plans for this move. Meanwhile, the interest from Spurs is allegedly for a loan move rather than an outright purchase. This is probably another reason why Hincapie hopes to head to the Emirates in the Premier League.
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Known for his tenacious play in the backline, Hincapie has also been an important contributor in attack at Leverkusen. Across the last three Bundesliga seasons, Hincapie has produced four goals and six assists but importantly, has been a crucial link the attacking moves for Leverkusen, notably in 2023-24 when the won the title under Xabi Alonso. However, the Ecuadorian is also infamous for his rashness on the pitch, with 21 yellow cards and three red cards since 2022-23.