Jakub Kiwior transfer news is heating up, with FC Porto confident of finalising a deal to sign the Arsenal defender before the end of the summer window.
According to O Jogo and A Bola, the Portuguese giants are pushing for a loan with an obligation to buy, though a permanent transfer remains on the table. Arsenal have reportedly set a price tag of around €27m (£23m), and there is a ‘strong expectation’ at Porto that the Poland international will arrive in the coming hours.
Kiwior, 25, was left on the bench as Arsenal cruised to a 5-0 Premier League victory over Leeds United at the Emirates on Saturday. Despite his talent, the former Spezia man has struggled for consistent minutes under Mikel Arteta, with William Saliba and Gabriel firmly established as the Gunners’ first-choice pairing.
Porto, meanwhile, are looking to bolster their defence ahead of another Champions League campaign. Having already brought in Southampton’s Jan Bednarek, they now hope to reunite him with his compatriot in a Polish partnership at the heart of their backline.
Why Porto Want Kiwior Now
The timing of Porto’s move is telling. Francesco Farioli’s side are under pressure to strengthen their defence after an inconsistent start to the new season. Kiwior, with his experience in Serie A and the Premier League, is viewed as a player who can make an immediate impact.
“Kiwior can be a significant addition — his versatility at centre-back or left-back gives Porto more tactical options.” — Record (Portugal)
Arsenal’s openness to negotiations reflects both the player’s desire for regular football and the club’s need to balance squad depth with financial considerations.
Jakub Kiwior’s Arsenal Record
| Stat (2024/25) | Jakub Kiwior |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 28 |
| Starts | 16 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Clearances per game | 3.1 |
source: sofascore match data – 24 August 2025
While Kiwior has shown composure on the ball and defensive discipline, he has not yet cemented himself as a guaranteed starter under Arteta. A move to Porto could offer the platform he needs.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Arsenal’s stance is pragmatic:
“Kiwior is a solid player but not indispensable. With Arsenal chasing trophies, Arteta needs a settled back four — and Kiwior has been on the fringes too often. A move makes sense for both parties.”
Meanwhile, Portuguese football writer Ana Sousa notes the tactical benefits for Porto:
“Kiwior is left-footed, comfortable in possession, and tactically versatile. He can slot in as a central defender in a back four or even as a wide centre-back in a three. Conceição will see him as an instant upgrade.”
Key Insights
- Porto are in advanced talks to sign Jakub Kiwior from Arsenal.
- A loan with obligation or permanent deal worth €27m is on the table.
- Kiwior was an unused substitute in Arsenal’s 5-0 win over Leeds.
- Porto want him to form a Polish defensive partnership with Jan Bednarek.
- There is a ‘strong expectation’ in Portugal the deal will be finalised soon.
What’s Next?
Negotiations between Arsenal and Porto are set to intensify in the next 48 hours, with both sides hopeful of finding an agreement. The Gunners are likely to demand assurances on payment structure, while Porto remain confident they can push the deal over the line.
If completed, Kiwior would join before the Champions League squad registration deadline — a key factor in Porto’s urgency. For Arsenal, his departure could spark late defensive movement in the Premier League market.
Should Arsenal cash in on Kiwior now, or keep him as cover for Saliba and Gabriel?
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