Arsenal defender Jakub Kiwior is closing in on a switch to FC Porto, but his move is on hold as he awaits final authorisation from the Gunners hierarchy.
According to reports in Portugal (A Bola, Record, Jornal de Notícias), Porto are set to sign the Poland international on loan with an obligation to buy. The deal will cost the Dragons around €26–27m, with the 25-year-old expected in Portugal for medicals once the final details are settled.
Kiwior was initially tipped to travel on Tuesday, but that was delayed as Arsenal continue to work through final negotiations. Crucially, Jornal de Notícias add that Arsenal want to finalise the signing of Piero Hincapié from Bayer Leverkusen before sanctioning Kiwior’s departure.
Arsenal’s Position
Mikel Arteta is reluctant to let Kiwior leave without a replacement, especially with defensive depth already tested by injuries in recent seasons. The Pole has been a versatile option, covering at both centre-back and left-back since joining from Spezia in 2023.
With Porto pressing to complete the deal before the deadline, Arsenal are balancing the need to refresh their squad with ensuring they are not left short at the back.
Porto’s Ambition
For Porto, landing Kiwior would be a major boost as they aim to reclaim the Primeira Liga title and progress in Europe. The structure of the deal — loan with obligation to buy — allows them to spread the cost while securing a long-term defensive solution.
Reports in Portugal suggest Porto are optimistic the final details will be ironed out within hours, with Kiwior flying out for his medical today or tomorrow at the latest.
“Kiwior is awaiting authorisation to travel to Portugal for his medical… the process is nearing completion.” — A Bola
Jakub Kiwior 2024/25 Stats (Arsenal)
| Stat (2024/25) | Jakub Kiwior |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 26 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 0 |
| Tackles per game | 1.4 |
| Pass Accuracy | 88% |
source: sofascore match data – 27 August 2025
Kiwior’s numbers reflect his role as a steady rotational defender at Arsenal, valued more for his tactical flexibility than attacking output.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Arsenal’s caution is justified:
“Kiwior isn’t first-choice, but he’s been a useful squad player. Letting him go without bringing in Hincapié would be a huge risk for Arteta. Porto’s structure is smart — €27m all-in for a 25-year-old international is good value.”
He added: “This is one of those late-window deals where timing is everything. If Arsenal complete Hincapié, Kiwior’s flight will be booked within hours.”
Key Insights
- FC Porto to sign Kiwior on loan with obligation to buy worth €26–27m.
- Player awaiting Arsenal’s authorisation to travel for medical.
- Deal delayed as Arsenal close in on Leverkusen’s Piero Hincapié.
- Kiwior joined Arsenal from Spezia in 2023.
- Porto expect him to arrive in Portugal within 24–48 hours.
What’s Next
Kiwior’s transfer hinges on Arsenal finalising their defensive replacement. If Hincapié arrives, the Pole is expected to travel immediately to Portugal for medical tests and contract signing.
With the transfer window closing on September 1, both clubs are racing against the clock. For Kiwior, this looks like the decisive move of his career, with guaranteed minutes at one of Europe’s biggest clubs.
Should Arsenal let Kiwior leave for Porto — or keep him as squad depth even if Hincapié arrives?
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