Arsenal are making a late push in the transfer window as Fabrizio Romano reports that the Gunners are now in direct talks with Bayer Leverkusen over a deal for defender Piero Hincapié.
The Premier League side are exploring a loan move with an obligation to buy, a structure that would allow them to spread the financial outlay while securing one of Europe’s most highly-rated young defenders. The deal now hinges on approval from the Bayer Leverkusen board, who will need to sign off on the proposed terms.
Personal terms with the Ecuadorian international have already been agreed, with Hincapié eager to make the switch to North London. Romano adds that the 22-year-old has a contract ready on Arsenal’s side if the agreement between the clubs goes through.
Hincapié has been a key part of Leverkusen’s defensive setup under Xabi Alonso and is seen as a versatile option, capable of playing both as a centre-back and left-back. His arrival could pave the way for Jakub Kiwior to leave the Emirates, with FC Porto pushing to sign the Polish international for a reported fee of €26 million.