Jakub Kiwior - FC Porto
Image credit: Getty Images
FC Porto have strengthened their backline with the signing of Arsenal defender Jakub Kiwior on a season-long loan, which includes an obligation to buy the Polish international for €17 million at the end of the 2025/26 campaign, according toCorreio da Manha.
The deal, completed on transfer deadline day, features an initial €2 million loan fee, a mandatory €17 million purchase clause, and up to €5 million in achievable add-ons. Arsenal have also inserted a €2 million sell-on clause, potentially raising the total value of the transfer to €24 million.
Kiwior, 25, underwent medical examinations in Portugal before putting pen to paper, marking one of Porto’s most high-profile defensive signings in recent years. Comfortable at both centre-back and left-back, the Poland international arrives as a key addition to coach Francesco Farioli’s possession-based system.
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Signed by Arsenal from Serie A side Spezia in January 2023 for €19.5 million, Kiwior made 68 appearances for the Gunners, scoring three goals and providing five assists. While he showed versatility and impressed during a nine-game spell deputising for the injured Gabriel Magalhaes last season, he found regular minutes hard to come by behind first-choice pairing William Saliba and Gabriel.
Jakub Kiwior
Jakub Kiwior completed his move to Porto on deadline day (Image credit: Getty Images)
His strong performances in the Champions League, including a standout display against Real Madrid, showcased his potential but were not enough to secure a permanent starting role.
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Kiwior expressed delight at completing his move, telling Correio da Manha: “It was a difficult period because I had to wait, but I’m finally here. I watched all FC Porto matches and was impressed by the fans from what I saw on TV. I’m looking forward to feeling their support at the stadium.”
The Polish defender will now line up alongside compatriot Jan Bednarek in Porto’s defence as the club aim to mount a strong challenge in the Primeira Liga and in European competition.
For Arsenal, the deal delivers a modest profit on their initial investment, with the sell-on clause securing potential future gains. The move was made possible following Arsenal’s loan acquisition of Bayer Leverkusen’s Piero Hincapie, allowing Mikel Arteta to reshape his defensive options ahead of the new season.
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