According to reports, Porto made an approach for Kiwior earlier in the summer transfer window but saw their bid rejected. Arsenal made it clear that they consider the Polish international an important part of Mikel Arteta’s defensive setup, particularly with the long season ahead and the demands of both domestic and European football. Despite that, Porto have not given up hope and are keeping a close eye on his situation.
HONG KONG, CHINA – JULY 31: Jakub Kiwior of Arsenal runs with the ball during the Pre-Season Friendly match between Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur at Kai Tak Sports Park on July 31, 2025 in Hong Kong, China. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Kiwior, who is now 25 years old, joined Arsenal from Spezia in January 2023 and has grown into a dependable option across the backline. His versatility, being able to play at centre-back and occasionally at left-back, has made him valuable to Arteta. With Arsenal competing on multiple fronts this season, Arteta is reluctant to lose depth in key defensive areas, which is why the club’s stance remains firm.
For Porto, however, the need for a new centre-back remains pressing. They admire Kiwior’s profile — a composed defender with good passing range and tactical awareness — qualities that suit their playing style. Sources suggest that he has always been high on their list of potential signings, but the challenge lies in meeting Arsenal’s demands and convincing the English club to part with him at this stage of the season.
From Arsenal’s perspective, selling Kiwior would not only weaken their squad depth but also force them into the market late in the window to find a replacement, which is never straightforward. The Gunners are well aware of how costly it could be to lose reliable cover, particularly given injuries to defenders in recent campaigns.
As it stands, the ball is firmly in Porto’s court. They would need to return with a significantly improved offer if they are serious about bringing Kiwior to Portugal. Even then, Arsenal’s reluctance to sell suggests that any negotiations will be complicated and potentially drawn out until the end of the transfer window.
For Kiwior himself, the situation remains one to watch. While he has been professional and committed since joining Arsenal, the prospect of more regular game time could tempt him at some stage, especially with a club like Porto showing long-term interest. However, with Arsenal unwilling to let him go easily, his immediate future still appears to be in North London.
Overall, Porto’s admiration for Kiwior is clear, but Arsenal’s valuation and reliance on the defender mean this is not an easy deal to complete. Unless a dramatic change occurs before the transfer deadline, Kiwior looks set to remain part of Arteta’s plans as Arsenal chase silverware this season.
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