Arsenal completes first major signing of summer transfer window

Premier League champions Arsenal have completed the permanent signing of Ecuadorian defender Piero Hincapie from Bayer Leverkusen following an impressive loan spell at the Emirates Stadium. 

The Gunners activated the purchase option included in his loan agreement, securing the 24-year-old’s services on a five-year contract that will keep him at the club until June 2031.

The deal is reportedly worth £34.5 million, with additional performance-related bonuses included in the agreement. 

Arsenal confirmed the transfer in an official statement, expressing their delight at making the move permanent as Mikel Arteta continues to strengthen a squad that delivered the club’s first Premier League title in years.

Hincapie quickly established himself as a key figure in Arsenal’s defence during the 2025-26 campaign. 

The versatile defender made 39 appearances across all competitions, playing a crucial role in a backline that once again ranked among the strongest in English football. 

His composure in possession, defensive awareness, and ability to operate across multiple positions made him one of Arteta’s most trusted players.

Beyond his defensive contributions, Hincapie also produced important moments at the other end of the pitch. 

He scored a valuable goal in Arsenal’s draw against Wolverhampton Wanderers in February and earned widespread praise from supporters throughout the season. 

His performances were recognized with Arsenal’s Player of the Month awards in both February and April during the decisive stages of the title race.

The Ecuador international arrived in North London with an impressive pedigree. 

After developing through the youth ranks of Independiente del Valle and enjoying a spell with Argentine side Talleres, he moved to Bayer Leverkusen, where he became an integral member of the squad that won the Bundesliga title under Xabi Alonso. 

His experience of competing at the highest level in Germany helped ease his transition to English football.

Hincapie has also become one of Ecuador’s most influential players on the international stage, earning more than 50 senior caps and representing his country at multiple major tournaments. 

Currently involved in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the defender remains a key figure for his national team.