FC Porto’s loan deal for Arsenal defender Jakub Kiwior is looking likely to be an expensive one for them, even before they make it permanent.
That’s according to Correio da Manha, who cover the defender today. According to the Portuguese newspaper, he could be set for major bonuses.
Kiwior joined the Portuguese side on loan from Arsenal in the summer transfer window. The deal includes an option for them to make it permanent, which looks likely to be activated.
Arsenal regret
The Polish defender has been earning praise at his loan club since day one. Indeed, there has even been a hint of Arsenal regret after the defender admitted Mikel Arteta did not want him to leave.
It’s been a good season for him too as Porto currently sit top of the table, four points clear of Sporting Club de Portugal. Benfica are third on 52 points, seven behind their rivals.
Kiwior has been a major part of their success, and he’s set to benefit from it. Correio report that the centre-back will receive an addition €800,00 net per year. That starts next year if he wins the title. It represents an extra €4m on his contract.
He currently receives €1.7m net, but he’d hit the maximum salary cap at the club, €2.5m, if they win the title.
Porto will pay a top price for him when the deal becomes permanent in the summer for €17m.
Long-term investment
They’ve already paid €2m for the loan. Then they’ll have to add in five years of contract, taking their total outlay to around €25m until 2031. But there’s no unhappiness about that fact.
Instead, the pursuit of the Arsenal defender reflects a major investment in the squad. Spending on player and coaching staff salaries has already increased by 19% compared to last year.
That will increase further if Kiwior helps them win the league, and at the moment that looks likely.