Arsenal are poised to complete the signing of Bayer Leverkusen defender Piero Hincapie on a permanent basis this summer, according to The Athletic.
The Ecuador international signed for the Gunners on a season-long loan from Leverkusen last summer. As part of the deal, an obligation to buy on certain conditions was agreed upon.
Hincapie had a slow start to his Arsenal career as he was a regular substitute, but the 24-year-old became an integral part of manager Mikel Arteta’s plans as the season progressed.
The Athletic claim that the versatile defender will now become Arsenal’s first summer signing. He will complete a permanent deal for £45 million with Leverkusen retaining a 10 percent sell-on clause.
Hincapie has already agreed terms on a five-year contract with the Gunners.
Hincapie deserves permanent Arsenal move
The Ecuadorian emerged as a top target for the Gunners prior to the transfer deadline last summer. There were some doubts about his playing time, given that he is primarily a centre-back.
Hincapie eventually got the opportunity to prove his credentials in Gabriel Magalhaes’ injury absence. With Gabriel’s return, the 24-year-old was called upon to occupy the left-back position.
Arteta could have easily opted to go with Myles Lewis-Skelly when Riccardo Calafiori got injured in December, but the Spanish tactician showed his faith in Hincapie, who made his mark.
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Hincapie ended the season on a high note. He was the regular choice at left-back during the second half of the campaign and also got the nod against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final.
The Leverkusen man had a solid season with 60 percent duels won. He also made two tackles per game alongside three clearances and two recoveries. He had a passing accuracy of almost 90 percent.
Hence, we are not surprised that Arsenal have moved forward with a permanent transfer. With Hincapie, the club have added quality and depth in the central defensive and left-back positions.
Arsenal could still pursue a new right-back if Ben White were to head for the exit door.