Former Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso (Picture: Getty)Mikel Arteta has revealed how Xabi Alonso helped convince him to sign Arsenal defender Piero Hincapie. The Gunners beat north London rivals Tottenham to a deal for Bayer Leverkusen star Hincapie last summer. While Arsenal signed Hincapie on a season-long loan, they had the option of making his stay permanent this summer for £45m. Arteta heaped praise on Hincapie ahead of that game and revealed he spoke to former Bayer Leverkusen boss Alonso before sanctioning the transfer. POLL Poll Will Arsenal win the Champions League Yep!

Source: Metro March 11, 2026 11:52 UTC