As Arsenal gears up for what could be a defining season in their Premier League title quest, Mikel Arteta is turning his attention to shoring up the defence.
The Gunners have already been active in the transfer market, but one key target has emerged on their radar: Bayer Leverkusen centre-back Piero Hincapie.
Arsenal Makes £45 Million Move for Hincapie
Arsenal are understood to have tabled a £45million offer for the Ecuadorian defender.
Hincapie, who has been on the Gunners’ wishlist for months, has a release clause of £52m, but Arsenal are reportedly hoping to negotiate a lower fee to secure his services before next week’s transfer deadline.
Summer Signings Focused on Attack, but Defence Now a Priority
So far this summer, Arsenal have heavily invested in attacking reinforcements, bringing in players like Viktor Gyokeres, Martin Zubimendi, Eberechi Eze, and Noni Madueke.
While these signings have strengthened the forward and midfield options, Arteta is keen to bolster his defensive line, recognising that solid foundations are crucial for a serious title push.
How Hincapie Could Affect Other Deals
Any agreement for Hincapie could also have ripple effects on other transfers.
Reports suggest that Porto’s interest in Arsenal defender Jakub Kiwior may hinge on whether Hincapie’s move goes through.
This means the north Londoners could be navigating multiple negotiations simultaneously in the final days of the window.
Title Clash Looms at Anfield
On the pitch, Arsenal are riding high after an impressive start to the season.
A hard-fought win at Old Trafford was followed by a comfortable victory over Leeds at The Emirates, where new signing Gyokeres opened his account for the club.
Injury Concerns Could Shake Up Lineup
However, Arteta faces potential headaches ahead of Sunday’s top-of-the-table clash with Liverpool at Anfield.
Captain Martin Odegaard and talisman Bukayo Saka were both substituted against Leeds due to knocks, and the severity of their injuries is yet to be confirmed.
Should they miss out, Eberechi Eze could be thrust into the starting XI following his £68million move from Crystal Palace, where he contributed 14 goals and 11 assists last season on the way to FA Cup glory.
Arsenal Balances Transfers and Title Ambitions
With the transfer deadline fast approaching, Arsenal are juggling ambitions both on and off the field.
Securing Hincapie could strengthen their backline, while managing injury concerns and maintaining momentum in the league will be critical if the Gunners hope to end their long wait for Premier League glory.
