Portuguese giants FC Porto have announced the permanent acquisition of defender Jakub Kiwior from Premier League side Arsenal. The transfer sees the Polish international move to the Estádio do Dragão for a base fee of €17 million, with performance-related bonuses that could increase the total package to €22 million.
Kiwior, 24, joined Arsenal from Italian club Spezia in January 2023 for a reported €25 million. During his time in north London, he made 38 appearances across all competitions, scoring one goal. However, he struggled to establish himself as a regular starter under Mikel Arteta, often serving as a backup option in central defense and left-back positions.
The Polish defender's lack of consistent playing time at the Emirates Stadium paved the way for a summer departure. Porto, seeking defensive reinforcements, moved quickly to secure his services. The deal includes a fixed €17 million payment, with the remaining €5 million contingent on specific targets such as appearances and team achievements.
In an official statement, Porto expressed their delight at securing Kiwior's signature, highlighting his technical ability and experience in top European leagues. The club's management believes he will bolster their defensive line for the upcoming season, both in domestic competitions and European campaigns.
For Arsenal, the sale represents a profit on a player who had fallen down the pecking order. The Gunners have reinvested those funds into their squad, focusing on areas of greater need. Kiwior's departure also opens up a spot for young talents within the Arsenal academy.
Kiwior is expected to slot directly into Porto's first team, where he will compete with established defenders for a starting role. His versatility across the backline could prove valuable for manager Sérgio Conceição's tactical setups.
As the transfer window progresses, Porto will hope Kiwior adapts quickly to Portuguese football and helps the club challenge for titles both domestically and in Europe. The move marks a fresh start for the Polish international, who will aim to revive his career in a new league.
Based on reporting from Чемпионат.com.