The Gunners, led by new sporting director Andrea Berta, are working to negotiate down Hincapie’s €60 million release clause. However, Arsenal’s strategy hinges on departures before arrivals, as the club must finalize a deal involving Jakub Kiwior, who is set to join Porto.

Hincapie has been a long-standing target for Arsenal, with reports stating that the Gunners have shown genuine interest in the Tricolor international in the past. The 22-year-old centre-back has attracted strong interest across Europe, with clubs such as Atlético Madrid and Bayern Munich being the first to inquire.

Chelsea have placed Hincapie on their shortlist following Levi Colwill’s injury, while Tottenham are reportedly exploring a loan deal with an obligation to buy. Hincapie has built a reputation as one of the Bundesliga’s most reliable defenders, having played 166 matches for Leverkusen and earned 46 caps for Ecuador.