Arsenal is ready to let go of defender Jakub Kiwior for 25 million Euros, since the Polish player cannot break into the main defensive lineup under manager Mikel Arteta.
The future of Polish defender Jakub Kiwior at Arsenal appears to be decided. The 25-year-old is no longer part of Mikel Arteta's plans, and the Gunners are willing to sell him for 25 million Euros.
Joining Arsenal from Spezia during the winter 2023 transfer window for nearly 20 million Euros, Kiwior was once seen as a promising defensive prospect. However, he failed to establish himself under Arteta, frequently sidelined behind the central defensive pair William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães.
Insider sources reveal that Arteta believes Kiwior has not met the requirements in terms of pace, decision-making, and defensive initiative, which are crucial elements in his tactical system. Therefore, the Spanish coach does not rule out selling the player to reinvest in other targets this coming summer.
This season, Kiwior is on loan at Porto, where he is regaining consistent playing time. The Polish defender has quickly become a key figure in the Portuguese club’s backline.
Kiwior’s loan contract runs until June 30, 2026, including a purchase option worth 17 million Euros, plus 5 million Euros in performance-related add-ons. Notably, Arsenal retains a percentage of rights in any future resale deals.
According to Portuguese media, Porto plans to activate the permanent transfer clause in April or May 2026 to secure the player they consider a “future defensive cornerstone.”
Beyond sporting reasons, Kiwior’s transfer holds significant financial importance for Arsenal. Selling this defender will free up wage budget and balance the transfer funds to prepare for new defensive signings.
Statistics show that Kiwior still falls short in dueling ability and reading the game compared to top Premier League center-backs. Hence, Arteta views him as a negotiable asset in the squad rebuilding plan.
Although leaving London under less-than-ideal circumstances, Kiwior still earns respect from Arteta. The Spanish coach acknowledges understanding his player’s desire for regular playing time. “Kiwior wants to play and develop, and I completely understand that,” Arteta stated.
If he maintains consistent form at Porto and shows resilience in continental competitions, Kiwior can fully reassert his standing. For Arsenal, Porto, and the player himself, this deal is seen as “mutually beneficial,” with each party finding a suitable path forward.