Real Madrid are plotting a transfer hijack of Arsenal's £45m permanent deal for Piero Hincapie, according to reports. The Ecuadorian defender spent the season on loan at the Emirates from Bayer Leverkusen, with an obligation to buy, but Los Blancos have now lodged an enquiry following the appointment of Jose Mourinho as manager.
Martinelli considering exit
Gabriel Martinelli is reportedly open to leaving Arsenal this summer, according to The Times. The Brazilian winger, who has one year left on his contract with an extension option, is considering a move overseas amid speculation that Arsenal are targeting a new left winger. Manager Mikel Arteta believes the left wing position needs the most urgent attention in the transfer window, as neither Martinelli nor Leandro Trossard are considered world-class talents.
Martinelli, 25, has spent seven seasons at Arsenal, scoring 62 goals in 278 appearances. He was previously linked with Bayern Munich before they signed Luis Diaz last summer. His age and potential could command a higher transfer fee than Trossard, making him the more likely departure.
Real Madrid's Hincapie interest
Real Madrid, under new manager Jose Mourinho, have already made four signings this summer and are now targeting Hincapie. ESPN reports that Madrid are seeking a left-footed centre-half who can also play left-back, a profile that fits the 24-year-old. Arsenal secured Hincapie on a season-long loan last summer with an obligation to purchase for £45m. While the permanent deal has not been finalised, it is widely expected he will return from the World Cup as an Arsenal player.
Hincapie finished his first season in England as Arteta's preferred left-back option, making 25 appearances in Arsenal's Premier League title-winning campaign and 14 more in cup competitions.
Arsenal's summer plans
Despite winning the Premier League and ending a 22-year title drought, Arteta was candid about his squad's shortcomings after their Champions League final loss to PSG. The Gunners are expected to spend up to £250m again this summer, targeting three to five higher-calibre players. Sporting director Andrea Berta will need to offload some players to fund the arrivals.
