Arsenal reject €27m Kiwior bid from Porto, defender remains in Arteta’s plans

Arsenal have rejected an approach from FC Porto for Jakub Kiwior, turning down a loan-to-buy proposal worth €27 million for the versatile defender.

The Portuguese side had submitted an offer structured as a loan with a mandatory purchase clause, but the Gunners dismissed the bid due to both the valuation and the format.

Arsenal are not open to a loan deal and would only consider a permanent transfer if the fee exceeds €30 million.

Kiwior remains part of Mikel Arteta’s plans heading into the new season, with the manager and club hierarchy viewing the 25-year-old as a valuable member of the squad.

The Poland international is under contract at the Emirates until 2028 and has impressed with his ability to operate at centre-back, left-back, and in defensive midfield.

Signed from Spezia for €25 million plus add-ons in January 2023, Kiwior has gradually established himself as a reliable option for Arteta. He featured 30 times in all competitions last season, scoring once and registering two assists.

His performances in the Champions League, particularly against Paris Saint-Germain, stood out. He drew praise for his composed display against Kylian Mbappe and contributed to Arsenal’s run to the semi-finals.

Internally, the coaching staff see him as a dependable alternative to William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes.

Porto’s interest forms part of their push to bolster their backline, but Arsenal’s response has been decisive.

With a congested fixture schedule expected in 2025/26 due to their participation in the Premier League and Champions League, the Gunners are keen to retain depth in defence.

The rejection of Porto’s bid reflects a broader trend this summer, with Arsenal tightening control over their outgoing business.

While the club have overseen a major clearout — offloading players including Thomas Partey, Jorginho and several academy products — they are now taking a firmer stance on remaining assets.

Oleksandr Zinchenko, Fabio Vieira, and Albert Sambi Lokonga could still depart, but Kiwior is not seen as expendable. The player is also understood to be settled at the club and open to continuing his development under Arteta.

With no follow-up bid yet tabled by Porto, Arsenal’s message is clear: Kiwior is either staying or only leaving on their terms.

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