By Stephen Simon
Premier League champions Arsenal have completed the permanent signing of Ecuador international defender Piero Hincapié from German club Bayer Leverkusen after activating the purchase option contained in his loan agreement.
The 24-year-old, who spent the 2025/26 season on loan at the Emirates Stadium, signed a five-year contract that will keep him at the North London club until 2031. The transfer is reported to be worth about £34.5 million, with additional performance-related add-ons.
Hincapié established himself as a key member of Mikel Arteta’s squad during his loan spell, making 39 appearances in all competitions as Arsenal won their first Premier League title in 22 years. His versatility enabled him to feature both at left-back and in central defence, helping the Gunners finish the league campaign with one of the best defensive records in the division.
Speaking on the transfer, Arsenal said the conditions attached to the purchase option had been met, allowing the club to make the move permanent from July 1.
Hincapié is currently representing Ecuador at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and is expected to rejoin his club after completing his international assignment.
The signing is Arsenal’s first confirmed acquisition of the summer transfer window as Arteta looks to strengthen his squad ahead of the defence of the Premier League title and another campaign in the UEFA Champions League.
