Arsenal defender Jakub Kiwior is determined to leave the club, according to reports in Portugal, with FC Porto monitoring his situation closely. The Polish international has fallen further down Mikel Arteta’s pecking order this season and is growing frustrated with his lack of opportunities.

Portuguese outlet O Jogo claims Kiwior became increasingly disillusioned after being left out of the squad entirely for Arsenal’s clash with Manchester United last weekend. Despite making 31 appearances across all competitions last season, the 25-year-old is now struggling for minutes with William Saliba and Gabriel established as the first-choice pairing.

The arrival of Riccardo Calafiori, who was preferred at left-back on Sunday, alongside summer signing Cristhian Mosquera, has further reduced Kiwior’s prospects at the Emirates. Arsenal are understood to value him at around €30m, but Porto are unlikely to meet that figure.

Arsenal’s defensive depth has improved significantly this summer, and Kiwior appears to be one of the casualties. Arteta has long stressed the importance of squad rotation, but with Calafiori and Mosquera arriving, Kiwior faces the prospect of spending much of the season on the bench.

From Porto’s perspective, Kiwior represents a player with European experience who can immediately slot into their backline. However, the fee Arsenal are demanding is steep for the Portuguese giants, making a loan with an option to buy a more realistic route.

From Arsenal’s perspective, holding out for €30m is logical given Kiwior’s age, contract until 2028, and versatility across the backline. However, Porto’s reluctance to pay that figure reflects the financial gap between Premier League and Portuguese clubs.

The bigger question is whether Arsenal can afford to lose depth given their demanding season ahead. While Saliba and Gabriel are first-choice, injuries could force Arteta to rotate heavily — a scenario in which Kiwior would normally play a role.

Arsenal’s €30m valuation will be the stumbling block, and Porto are more likely to pursue a loan arrangement if they are serious. With the Portuguese side still active in the market, this could become a late-window story if Kiwior pushes harder for an exit.

For Arsenal, the choice is between cashing in now or retaining a useful squad option for rotation. With Champions League football back on the agenda, squad depth may tempt Arteta to keep hold — unless the player forces the issue.

Should Arsenal cash in on Kiwior now — or keep him for defensive depth despite his frustration?