Director suggests he is ready to deny £52m star his desired move to Arsenal, ‘he knows that…’

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Before the transfer window closes, Arsenal could potentially make one, or even two more signings.

So far this summer, sporting director Andrea Berta has welcomed seven new players to the club – Mikel Arteta’s first team squad now looks very different.

Kepa Arrizabalaga was the first to arrive back at the beginning of July, and Arsenal’s latest addition is Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace.

Arsenal have recruited a mix of experience and potential this summer, and Arteta’s side are now in a better position to deliver the trophies their football deserves.

Of course, with Jakub Kiwior now nearing a move to FC Porto on loan with an obligation to buy, and Oleksandr Zinchenko also available for transfer, there might be one more vacancy to fill.

Bayer Leverkusen want to keep Piero Hincapie despite Arsenal interest

After finalising a deal for Eze, Arsenal have immediately stepped up their attempts to sign Piero Hincapie from Bayer Leverkusen.

Predominantly a left centre-back, Hincapie can also play as a full-back, explaining his appeal to Arteta – he can effectively replace both Kiwior and Zinchenko.

However, Bayer Leverkusen director Simon Rolfes has just played down the chances of Hincapie leaving before the deadline.

Speaking to RTL/ntv and Sport, Rolfes confirmed that his club are yet to receive an offer for his defender, who has a reported £52m release clause, even if there’s interest from the Premier League.

READ MORE: Eberechi Eze responds when asked what position he wants to play at Arsenal

Tottenham Hotspur are also keen on Ecuador international according to reports, but Hincapie wants to join Arsenal.

Explaining the situation, Rolfes said: “We still haven’t received an official offer from any club, so he’s our player. That’s the status quo.

“He knows that we value him highly and would like to see him continue with us.”

And in line with those words, Rolfes might choose to deny Hincapie a move away, after all, he wants him to stay.

Piero Hincapie was faster than Benjamin Sesko last season

After being linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium throughout the summer, Benjamin Sesko eventually got his move to England.

Although, Sesko ultimately joined Manchester United instead of Arsenal.

Ian Wright was impressed by Sesko against Arsenal, and fans in north London will hope that the club don’t go on to regret their decision to walk away from any deal.

But given that Sesko is known for his extraordinary pace, it’s pretty remarkable to learn that Hincapie hit a higher top speed in the Bundesliga last season.

Hincapie truly is a defender with excellent recovery pace, which can be utilised in both central and wide positions at the back.

And if Arsenal do effectively sell Kiwior to Porto, albeit as an initial loan, Hincapie would appear to be an upgrade for Arteta.

But any deal won’t come cheap, just as Rolfes protests.