Arsenal strike agreement for Piero Hincapié as they close in on second signing ahead of transfer deadline.

Arsenal have reached an agreement to sign Piero Hincapié from Bayer Leverkusen, securing a loan deal with an option to buy the Ecuadorian defender for £45million. The move strengthens Mikel Arteta’s defensive options and marks the club’s eighth addition of the summer under sporting director Andrea Berta, following the arrivals of Viktor Gyökeres, Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard, Noni Madueke, Kepa Arrizabalaga, Cristhian Mosquera and Eberechi Eze.

Hincapié, 23, has made 166 appearances for Leverkusen and was part of their Bundesliga-winning side under Xabi Alonso in 2023/24. Despite a £50m release clause and competition from Tottenham, Newcastle, and Liverpool, Arsenal have struck a more favourable deal. His signing will allow Jakub Kiwior to complete a move to Porto, with the BBC reporting that Hincapié is considered a direct replacement.

After heavy investment this summer, Arsenal will now prioritise outgoings to remain compliant with UEFA’s squad cost ratio rules. Alongside Kiwior’s expected exit, Reiss Nelson could also depart amid links to Fulham and Crystal Palace. However, Gabriel Martinelli is set to stay, with Arteta reaffirming the Brazilian’s importance to his plans despite the addition of Eze.

Meanwhile, 19-year-old winger Ismeal Kabia will spend the season on loan at Shrewsbury Town. The Dutch talent, who has already impressed for the U21s this campaign, will gain senior experience in League Two before returning to north London next summer.