Arsenal defender Jakub Kiwior could play a key role in negotiations that might see the Gunners move closer to signing Eberechi Eze this summer.
According to CaughtOffside, Crystal Palace are reportedly interested in the Polish international as they aim to reinforce their defence ahead of a demanding campaign under Oliver Glasner.
Arsenal have been strongly linked with a move for Eze, who is regarded as one of the most exciting English attackers in the league.
Palace, meanwhile, could use the Gunners’ interest in the midfielder as an opportunity to secure Kiwior as part of a possible player-plus-cash deal.
The Eagles may lose Marc Guehi to Liverpool, leaving a major gap in their backline and prompting a search for a reliable replacement.
Kiwior, at 25 years old, is seen as a capable option who could step in to help Palace remain competitive across all competitions.
However, Arsenal are also weighing up the idea of extending his stay, with Mikel Arteta valuing the defender’s versatility and composure under pressure.
Palace are not the only club monitoring the Polish international. Everton and Wolverhampton Wanderers have also been credited with interest in the defender.
Outside England, AC Milan are keeping a close watch, with the Serie A giants long-term admirers of the former Spezia man, as per the report.
Transfermarkt places Kiwior’s market value at around £24 million, a figure that could form the basis of negotiations in any potential deal.
Arsenal’s pursuit of Eze could therefore be influenced by Palace’s readiness to use their interest in the midfielder as leverage in discussions.
Tottenham Hotspur are currently leading the chase for the Palace star, but Arsenal are expected to remain alert and could still step in to try and hijack their rivals deal.
Eze’s quality and ability to change matches make him a highly coveted target, while Kiwior’s situation provides a possible bargaining chip in talks.
The coming weeks are likely to determine whether Arsenal will push ahead with an offer that balances both their own needs and Palace’s.
