Done deals: Arsenal set to confirm two major defensive deals this weekend

Arsenal are pushing to wrap up two significant defensive deals before the transfer deadline, with both incoming and outgoing business edging closer to completion.

The Gunners have sealed a deal with Bayer Leverkusen for Ecuadorian defender Piero Hincapié. The 23-year-old has long been admired by Arsenal’s recruitment team, and with the club prioritising a left-sided defender this window, negotiations advanced quickly. Leverkusen initially held a high asking price, with Hincapié’s release clause standing at around €60million (£52m), but Arsenal have managed a loan with option to buy, with the total potential fee £45million if all clauses reached.

Hincapié has made 46 international appearances for Ecuador despite his young age, and his versatility in operating at both centre-back and full-back makes him an attractive option for Mikel Arteta’s system. His ability to defend aggressively in wide areas while being comfortable in possession aligns with the tactical flexibility Arsenal have been seeking at the back.

Embed from Getty Images

Meanwhile, as a result, Arsenal have allowed Jakub Kiwior’s move to Porto. The Polish international indicated Porto was his preferred destination. Kiwior is scheduled to undergo his medical today ahead of signing a five-year contract with the Portuguese club. The deal is worth a potential €27m, giving Arsenal a healthy profit on a player they signed for €20m in 2023. Crucially, Arsenal have also inserted a sell-on clause into the agreement, which could prove valuable in the future. Given Kiwior’s age and potential, it seems highly likely he could move again in the next two to five years, ensuring the Gunners benefit further down the line.

While Kiwior impressed in spells last season, the 25-year-old has slipped down Arteta’s pecking order and Arsenal see this as the right moment to cash in.

Once both deals go through as expected, Arsenal will have secured a highly rated young defender in Hincapié while also generating funds and future value from Kiwior’s sale, keeping the squad balanced in quality and numbers. Oleksandr Zinchenko is also expected to be allowed to leave, with talks of a move to Marseille underway.

For more updates on all the latest Arsenal transfer news, stay tuned to Fresh Arsenal.