Why Arsenal Want Hincapie: How The Leverkusen Defender Fits Into Arteta’s Back Line

With just days left in the transfer window, Arsenal are pushing to strengthen Mikel Arteta’s squad — and the name at the top of their list is Piero Hincapie, the Ecuadorian defender who starred in Bayer Leverkusen’s title-winning side.

But why do Arsenal want Hincapie specifically, and how would he fit into a team already stacked with defensive options? The answer lies in his profile, versatility, and the tactical flexibility he could offer the Gunners.

Who Is Piero Hincapie?

Still only 23, Hincapie already has more than 200 senior appearances across South America, the Bundesliga, and three major international tournaments.

He was a key figure in Xabi Alonso’s Leverkusen side, playing as both a left-sided centre-back and wing-back in their historic unbeaten league campaign.

Born in Esmeraldas, Ecuador, Hincapie came through Independiente del Valle’s academy before moving to Talleres in Argentina.

Within a year he was on his way to Germany, where he quickly became a first-choice defender for Leverkusen.

Internationally, he has been a regular for Ecuador since the 2021 Copa America and featured prominently at the 2022 World Cup.

Why Arsenal Want Hincapie

1. A rare left-footed defender

At the elite level, left-footed centre-backs remain scarce. Arsenal already have Gabriel Magalhaes holding down that role, but Arteta has learned the hard way how costly injuries in defence can be.

Adding Hincapie gives Arsenal another natural option on that side — something they need with Jakub Kiwior reportedly departing.

2. Tactical flexibility

Under Alonso, Hincapie showed he can thrive in multiple roles: as a centre-back in a back three, as a full-back, or pushing high up the flank almost as a winger.

That sort of adaptability is invaluable for a manager like Arteta, who regularly shifts between a back four and hybrid systems.

3. Aggression and ball progression

Hincapie is known for his front-foot defending — sometimes bordering on over-zealous — but that intensity is part of what Arsenal like.

He’s quick, strong in duels, and comfortable carrying the ball into midfield or hitting diagonal passes to switch play.

Arteta has prioritised defenders who can initiate attacks, and Hincapie ticks that box.

4. Squad depth for a title challenge

Last season, Arsenal’s title hopes wobbled when injuries forced players out of position.

Signing Hincapie would be a “big club” move — ensuring depth and quality across the back line rather than relying on good fortune.

How Would Hincapie Fit at Arsenal?

Realistically, Hincapie would not walk straight into Arsenal’s XI. Gabriel is firmly first-choice at left centre-back, while Riccardo Calafiori and youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly are competing for the starting left-back berth.

But that doesn’t make the move redundant. In fact, it highlights why Arsenal want Hincapie: to build resilience and steel.

Arteta knows depth wins titles, and having another proven, versatile defender ensures that injuries won’t derail another season.

There’s also a knock-on effect: investing in Hincapie at left-back/centre-back frees up Lewis-Skelly to play more midfield minutes, where his ball-carrying and press resistance could be invaluable.

The Ramos Influence

Hincapie idolises Sergio Ramos and Carles Puyol, watching endless clips of the Spanish legends as a teenager.

That blend of Ramos’ ball-playing bravado and Puyol’s leadership edge has shaped his own style: brave on the ball, aggressive in the tackle, and never shy of stepping into midfield to make things happen.

Perhaps Arsenal’s new assisstant coach Gabriel Heinze had an influence in the potential Hincapie signing – both have lots of similarities on and off the pitch.

Risks and Areas to Improve

Hincapie’s aggression can sometimes spill over into rash challenges, especially in a back four without extra cover.

He’s also not the tallest or fastest defender at the top level, meaning certain matchups could expose him.

But at 23, he has already shown a willingness to learn. Under the right coach — and Arteta fits the bill — his weaknesses can be refined into strengths.

Arsenal’s Next Move

Arsenal may need to move players on before finalising a deal, with Jakub Kiwior and Oleksandr Zinchenko among the players that could still leave.

But Hincapie has made it clear he wants a new challenge, and the Premier League feels like his natural next step.

For Arsenal, the equation is simple: sign Hincapie now, and they secure one of Europe’s most versatile young defenders while also future-proofing their squad for another title run.

For a team serious about winning major honours, those reasons explain exactly why Arsenal want Hincapie.