Arsenal confirm signing of title-winning defensive reinforcement

Arsenal have confirmed the deadline day signing of defender Piero Hincapie from Bayer Leverkusen on a season-long loan.

The Ecuador international joins the Gunners initially on a temporary move, but multiple reports claim there is a buy option included in the deal.

Hincapie was linked with a move to north London during the final week of the window and Arsenal have finally completed the deal following a number of moves on deadline day.

Arsenal confirm signing of Piero Hincapie

With news of the Gunners' interest in Hincapie breaking a week ahead of the window's final day, fans eagerly awaited his signing due to his preference to join Mikel Arteta's side over fellow suitor Tottenham.

He follows in the footsteps of new signing Eberechi Eze, who also turned his back on a move to the white half of north London in favour heading to the red side.

Hincapie's move is an initial loan with contrasting claims over the conditions. Leverkusen reported the deal as including an obligation to buy, but David Ornstein of the Athletic said it is only an option. The acclaimed journalist also stated there is a 10% sell-on clause included.

The Ecuadorian joined Leverkusen in 2021 and made over 160 appearances for the club while being a crucial part of the side that won the 2023/24 Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal titles. He has also received 46 caps for his national team and represented them at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

On bringing Hincapie to the club, sporting director Andrea Berta said: "We are delighted to have completed the loan signing for the season of Piero Hincapie.

"At only 23, Piero already has significant experience, both in the Bundesliga and at international level. He is an intelligent defender with real strength and versatility.

"His performances in recent years for both club and country have been of a consistent high quality, and we are confident Piero will continue to grow this season and be an important player for us."

Manager Mikel Arteta added: "We are so pleased to welcome Piero Hincapie to the club.

"Piero has a real physical presence, with his versatility and tactical flexibility giving us strong added defensive options. He is a big character, with a very good combination of both youth and maturity. He will make our squad stronger and more competitive as we continue into this season.

"We welcome Piero and his family to Arsenal."

With Jakub Kiwior joining Porto on a season-long loan, Hincapie will be a great addition for the Gunners as they look to keep their defensive and overall squad depth at a high quality. He will wear the number five shirt for Arsenal and will join up with his new teammates after completing international duty with Ecuador.

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