Arsenal are ready to formalise their interest in Bayer Leverkusen's highly-rated defender Piero Hincapié when the transfer market reopens in January, according to emerging reports.
The Gunners' defensive plans were thrown into disarray during their Premier League opener against Nottingham Forest, when summer signing Jurrien Timber suffered a devastating ACL injury. This has forced manager Mikel Arteta to accelerate his search for a new left-sided central defender.
Hincapié has emerged as the primary target to bolster the backline. The 21-year-old Ecuadorian international has been a standout performer for Xabi Alonso's Bundesliga side, attracting attention from several top European clubs with his composure, aggressive defending, and ability to play out from the back.
While a deal was not completed in the summer, the Mirror reports that Arsenal's hierarchy are now prepared to make a concrete offer for the player in the winter window. His potential arrival would provide crucial cover and competition for first-choice pairing Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba.
Securing his signature won't be straightforward. Leverkusen are under no pressure to sell one of their key assets, and the player's current contract runs until 2027. Any deal is likely to require a significant fee, potentially testing Arsenal's resolve in the mid-season market.
This potential move signals Arteta's intent to build a squad capable of challenging on all fronts. Adding a player of Hincapié's calibre and potential would not only address an immediate injury crisis but also secure a long-term asset for the club's future.
