Arsenal have officially activated their option to sign Ecuadorian defender Piero Hincapié on a permanent deal from Bayer Leverkusen, securing his long-term future following a highly successful loan spell. The permanent transfer will officially take effect on July 1, ensuring the 24-year-old remains a cornerstone of the Gunners’ backline for the foreseeable future.

Hincapié proved to be an integral part of Mikel Arteta’s Premier League-winning campaign last season. Establishing himself rapidly, he made 39 appearances across all competitions. His versatility and composure were vital for an Arsenal defensive unit that has now remarkably conceded the fewest goals in the last three Premier League seasons.

The Ecuador international originally made his Arsenal debut in a 2-0 Champions League victory away to Athletic Club in September 2025. He later scored his first and only goal for the club during a hard-fought draw with Wolverhampton Wanderers in February—a standout month that saw him crowned Arsenal’s Player of the Month, an accolade he proudly secured again in April.

Before his arrival in North London, Hincapié’s impressive trajectory began at Independiente del Valle, where he lifted the U-20 Copa Libertadores in 2020. Following a brief stint in Argentina with Talleres, he moved to Germany in August 2021. Over four seasons with Bayer Leverkusen, he made 166 appearances and crucially helped them secure a historic, unbeaten Bundesliga title during the 2023/24 campaign.

Currently representing Ecuador at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Hincapié brings significant international pedigree to the Emirates, having captained his nation at the U-17 level and amassed 54 senior caps across four major tournaments. The permanent transfer remains subject to the completion of standard regulatory processes.

Stay tuned to o9news for all the latest transfer gossip and exclusive football coverage!