Bayer Leverkusen’s sporting director, Simon Rolfes, confirms no official offers have been made for Piero Hincapié, despite links to Arsenal and Tottenham.

Piero Hincapié’s time at Bayer Leverkusen could be up as the club awaits official offers from interested parties.

Despite reports linking the 23-year-old Ecuadorian defender to Arsenal and  Tottenham, Leverkusen’s sporting director Simon Rolfes insists that no formal bids have been received. Rolfes emphasized that Hincapié is still a Leverkusen player, and the club would prefer to keep him, having valued him highly since signing a long-term contract last winter.

Hincapié’s potential departure would be a significant loss for Leverkusen, following the exits of star players like Florian Wirtz, Granit Xhaka, and Jonathan Tah.

Arsenal are reportedly keen on signing Hincapié, with the player expressing his preference for the Gunners over other suitors. Tottenham had initially been linked to Hincapié, but their loan proposal with an obligation to buy worth €60 million fell through.

Leverkusen are holding firm on the €60 million release clause in Hincapié’s contract, making negotiations challenging for interested clubs. Arsenal has already spent over £250 million on transfers this summer and are looking to negotiate a fee below the release clause. The Gunners’ pursuit of Hincapié is linked to potential exits, including Jakub Kiwior, who has received a bid from Porto.

Rolfes hinted that Leverkusen might still make signings before the transfer window deadline. The club is reportedly close to signing Argentine midfielder Ezequiel Fernández, which could be part of their strategy to strengthen the squad.