Arsenal: several players set to leave

Enticed by the performances of the Ecuadorian defender Piero Hincapié, on loan from Leverkusen, Arsenal would consider exercising its purchase option, estimated at £45 million, while preparing several departures to balance its books at the upcoming transfer window.

Arsenal already plans to turn Piero Hincapié’s loan into a permanent transfer. Arrived this winter from Bayer Leverkusen, the Ecuadorian defender quickly convinced the Gunners’ coaching staff with his solid performances and his ability to adapt to the Premier League. According to the British press, the London club says it is very satisfied with the player’s progress and plans to exercise its purchase option at the end of the season. The deal amount would be estimated at around £45 million.

Arsenal indeed had a clause allowing them to sign the Ecuadorian international permanently after his loan. The operation could follow a scenario similar to that of goalkeeper David Raya, who arrived on loan from Brentford before being permanently transferred to the Emirates Stadium the following season. At the same time, the London club’s management would be considering several adjustments to its squad ahead of the next summer transfer window. According to some information, four players – Gabriel Martinelli, Ben White, Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly – would be among the players likely to leave the club.

Having spent more than £250 million during the last transfer window, Arsenal will probably need to sell at least one first-team player to balance its books and finalise the permanent arrival of Hincapié. Martinelli and Ben White would be particularly considered as serious candidates for a departure, while the youngsters Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly could also be involved in a sale.