Arsenal defender Jakub Kiwior
Image credit: Getty Images
Crystal Palace are preparing for a possible defensive reshuffle this summer, with Arsenal’s Jakub Kiwior emerging as a leading candidate to replace star centre-back Marc Guehi, according to Football Transfers.
The Eagles face the prospect of losing Guehi, who has attracted strong interest from Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur. With his contract running into its final year and no extension agreed, Palace have set a £60 million price tag, though a bidding war could push that figure higher.
The potential departure of other key players, including Eberechi Eze has intensified the club’s need to secure long-term defensive stability.
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Kiwior, 25, joined Arsenal from Spezia in January 2023 for €19.5 million but has found consistent starts difficult to come by due to the dominance of Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba. Despite limited minutes, the Polish international has impressed when called upon, notably earning plaudits for his composed display in Arsenal’s 3-0 Champions League win over Real Madrid.
Arsenal - Jakub Kiwior
Jakub Kiwior (Image credit: Getty Images)
Palace previously enquired about Kiwior but were met with Arsenal’s €70 million (£60m) asking price, a figure intended to deter potential buyers. However, with Arsenal’s recent signing of Cristhian Mosquera, speculation over Kiwior’s future has grown.
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Reports suggest Palace believe they could land him for around £20–25 million, a fee that fits Oliver Glasner’s vision for a flexible, ball-playing backline.
Arsenal, though, remain firm on a €35 million (£30.3m) valuation, having rejected Porto’s €27 million package and cooled interest from AC Milan, Bologna, Inter Milan, and Villarreal. While Mikel Arteta values Kiwior as a versatile squad option, the player is reportedly open to a move in search of regular football ahead of international commitments.
Glasner’s preference for a back-three system aligns with Kiwior’s adaptability, with the defender capable of operating both centrally and at left-back. His performances in high-pressure situations, particularly during Gabriel’s injury absence last season, have convinced Palace he could thrive with consistent Premier League minutes.
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