Arsenal set to hijack second Spurs transfer as David Ornstein drops major update in £52m deal
Arsenal appear ready to frustrate Tottenham Hotspur for the second time in a matter of weeks, as fresh reports suggest the Gunners are now leading the race for Bayer Leverkusen defender Piero Hincapie.
This development follows their successful swoop for Eberechi Eze, a move that left Spurs empty-handed despite being heavily involved in talks for the Crystal Palace star. According to David Ornstein, Mikel Arteta’s side are actively working on a deal to bring Hincapie to the Emirates before the transfer window shuts.
Arsenal’s Summer Spending Spree
The North London giants have been one of the most aggressive clubs in this summer’s market. They’ve already splashed big money on Portuguese striker Viktor Gyokeres, who cost £64 million and has wasted no time silencing critics after his brace against Leeds United. Spanish midfielder Martin Zubimendi was another marquee addition, joining from Real Sociedad for £60 million.
Eze’s unveiling against Leeds highlighted just how ambitious Arsenal’s transfer strategy has been. In total, seven new players have walked through the doors at the Emirates this summer – but the club isn’t done yet.
Hincapie Deal Dependent on Departures
Ornstein reports that Arsenal are pressing forward with negotiations for Hincapie, but any agreement will likely hinge on player sales. With seven new arrivals, the club is under pressure to balance the books and streamline the squad.
Hincapie, 23, has made his desire to leave Leverkusen clear despite being tied to the German champions until 2029. The Ecuadorian international, who is equally comfortable at centre-back or left-back, has a release clause set at €60 million (£52 million). Arsenal, however, are believed to be exploring ways to reduce that figure to something closer to his current market valuation.
Importantly, the player’s preference is to join Arsenal, a factor that could tip negotiations in the Gunners’ favour should they be able to create space in their squad.
Spurs’ Approach Falls Flat
Arsenal’s move comes just hours after transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano revealed that Spurs had already opened talks with Hincapie. Tottenham reportedly offered an initial loan deal with an obligation to buy next summer, triggering his release clause in the process. Personal terms were also being discussed.
But once again, Arsenal seem ready to pull off a late hijack, mirroring the Eze saga that saw their North London rivals miss out at the final hurdle. Should the deal materialise, Hincapie would become Arsenal’s second defensive reinforcement this summer after Cristhian Mosquera, who joined from Valencia in a £17 million move.
Possible Exits to Fund the Move
For Arsenal to complete yet another major signing, some departures will almost certainly be required. Several fringe players are attracting interest across Europe.
Jakub Kiwior: wanted by Porto as they look to bolster their defensive options.
Reiss Nelson: on Fulham’s radar after a successful loan spell at Craven Cottage last season.
Oleksandr Zinchenko and Fabio Vieira: both have uncertain futures and could be sacrificed to raise funds.
If Arteta’s side can offload some of these names before the September 1 deadline, a deal for Hincapie could well be wrapped up, handing Arsenal another transfer victory over Spurs.