Arsenal are reportedly considering triggering a £45m clause to make Piero Hincapie's loan from Bayer Leverkusen permanent, with a view to selling him immediately for a profit. The Ecuador international played a key role in Arsenal's Premier League title win and their run to the Champions League final, where they lost to Paris Saint-Germain on penalties.
According to the Daily Mail, Barcelona have expressed interest in Hincapie, though it is unclear if they will make an offer. The La Liga side have already signed Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United for £80m this summer.
Arsenal could seek to generate a profit on the 24-year-old defender if they receive an acceptable bid. The exact fee they would demand remains unknown. Hincapie made 39 appearances for the Gunners during his loan spell.
Manager Mikel Arteta has indicated the club is likely to make the move permanent. When asked about the prospect, Arteta said: 'I would say so. Let's go through the season. We have already discussed the possible outcomes that we have after that period, but so far, we are very, very happy with him.'
