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Arsenal set sights on Hincapie after Kiwior nears Porto exit

By on August 29, 2025

Piero Hincapié bayer leverkusen

Arsenal are closing in on a move for Bayer Leverkusen defender Piero Hincapie after progress in Jakub Kiwior’s departure to Porto.

Reports in England and Portugal claim that Kiwior’s exit was a key factor before Arsenal could press ahead with a deal for Hincapie.

David Ornstein has confirmed that Porto have reached an agreement with Arsenal for the Poland international, worth £22 million plus add-ons.

The agreement could see the figure rise to £23 million depending on performance-related clauses, while Kiwior has already accepted personal terms.

The defender was not included in Mikel Arteta’s squad for the opening Premier League match against Manchester United earlier this month.

He was also left on the bench in Arsenal’s home victory against Leeds United at the weekend, which further signalled his pending exit.

Kiwior joined Arsenal from Spezia in January 2023 and has made 68 appearances across all competitions during his spell in North London.

The versatile defender featured in both centre-back and left-back roles and scored three goals while providing five assists for the Gunners.

Last season, he grew into a consistent starter in central defence following Gabriel’s long-term injury in April that required hamstring surgery.

Despite his contributions, Arsenal’s summer spending required player sales to balance the books, making Kiwior a candidate to be moved on.

Hincapie lined up as replacement

Arsenal’s pursuit of Hincapie has been ongoing since last summer, with the 23-year-old highly rated for his composure and left-footed ability.

The Ecuadorian defender has impressed with Leverkusen, helping them remain solid at the back while showing calmness in possession under pressure.

His arrival would provide Arteta with more balance in defence and another option to partner William Saliba in the heart of the backline.

The move is now expected to accelerate as Arsenal prepare to reinvest the funds from Kiwior’s sale into securing the South American defender.

Hincapie’s addition would strengthen squad depth, particularly with the Gunners competing in both the Premier League and Champions League this season.

Arsenal believe his style of play fits perfectly into their system, with the club hopeful that the deal can be