sevendayweekender – Arsenal have completed the permanent signing of defender Piero Hincapie from Bayer Leverkusen after triggering the purchase option included in his loan agreement. The Premier League champions have paid approximately £34.5 million (€40 million) to secure the Ecuador international on a long-term deal.
The 24-year-old initially joined Arsenal on loan ahead of the 2025-26 season and quickly established himself as an important member of Mikel Arteta’s squad.
Following an impressive campaign, the North London club exercised the option to make the transfer permanent. Hincapie has now signed a contract that will keep him at the Emirates Stadium until 2031.
The move provides Arsenal with long-term stability in defense after the versatile centre-back played a key role throughout the club’s title-winning season.
Hincapie’s consistency and ability to play in multiple defensive positions made him one of Arsenal’s standout performers during his loan spell.
The permanent deal also reflects the club’s confidence in the Ecuadorian as an important part of Arteta’s long-term plans.
Hincapie Played Key Role in Arsenal’s Premier League Triumph
During the 2025-26 campaign, Hincapie made 39 appearances across all competitions for Arsenal.
His performances helped the Gunners secure the Premier League title under Arteta. Contributing to one of the club’s most successful seasons in recent years.
The defender impressed with his composure in possession, strong tackling. And ability to operate both as a central defender and on the left side of the back line.
His versatility provided valuable tactical flexibility throughout a demanding domestic and European schedule.
After arriving from Bayer Leverkusen on loan, Hincapie adapted quickly to English football and became a regular starter.
His strong displays convinced Arsenal to activate the purchase clause before the start of the new season.
The six-year contract demonstrates the club’s commitment to building its defense around the 24-year-old for the foreseeable future.
Bayer Leverkusen Confirm Permanent Transfer
Bayer Leverkusen officially confirmed the completion of the transfer after the purchase conditions included in the original agreement were fulfilled.
In a statement, the Bundesliga club said, “The conditions for the purchase option were met and defender Hincapie will therefore continue his career with the London club in the Premier League in the coming years.”
The transfer concludes Hincapie’s successful spell in Germany. Where he developed into one of the Bundesliga’s most highly regarded defenders before moving to Arsenal.
For Leverkusen, the deal represents another significant transfer involving one of the club’s established first-team players.
Meanwhile, Arsenal continue strengthening the squad that captured the Premier League title last season.
With Piero Hincapie now secured on a permanent basis until 2031. Mikel Arteta retains one of his most reliable defenders as the Gunners prepare to defend their league crown and compete for further domestic and European success in the coming years.
