Arsenal have confirmed the permanent signing of defender Piero Hincapie after activating the purchase option included in his loan deal from Bayer Leverkusen.

The Ecuador international spent the 2025-26 campaign at the Emirates Stadium and played a key role as Mikel Arteta’s side secured the Premier League title.

Hincapie made 39 appearances in all competitions during his loan spell, including 20 starts in the Premier League as Arsenal finished the season with the division’s best defensive record, conceding just 27 goals.

The 24-year-old also featured in Arsenal’s run to the Champions League final, starting against Paris Saint-Germain in the showpiece event.

Important figure in title-winning campaign

Capable of operating at centre-back or left-back, Hincapie quickly established himself as an important member of Arteta’s squad following his debut in September.

His consistency and versatility helped Arsenal compete on multiple fronts throughout the season, with the defender becoming a regular fixture in the starting line-up.

The move will officially become permanent on 1 July.

Success in Germany before Arsenal switch

Before arriving in north London, Hincapié enjoyed a successful spell with Bayer Leverkusen.

He made 166 appearances for the Bundesliga side and was part of the team that secured the club’s first German league title during the 2023-24 season while completing an unbeaten domestic campaign.

His performances in Germany established him as one of Europe’s most highly rated defenders before Arsenal moved to bring him to the Premier League.

International experience

Hincapie began his professional career with Ecuadorian club Independiente del Valle before joining Argentine side Talleres in 2020.

After one season in Argentina, he earned a move to Leverkusen, where his development accelerated on both the domestic and international stage.

The defender has won 54 caps for Ecuador and has represented his country at four major tournaments, including the 2026 World Cup.