Jakub Kiwior is on the verge of leaving after Arsenal accepted a proposal from FC Porto worth €26 million, structured as a loan with an obligation to buy.
The Poland international, who joined from Spezia in January 2023, has never been able to establish himself as a regular under Mikel Arteta, despite proving reliable cover when injuries struck.
His omission from the squad for the season opener against Manchester United hinted that his departure was on the cards. Kiwior was then an unused sub in the subsequent 5-0 victory over Leeds and talks with Porto have been accelerating since Sunday.
According to Polish outlet Meczyki.pl, Arsenal rejected an initial offer from Porto before the Portuguese side returned with an improved package that includes a compulsory purchase clause.
The deal is described as close to completion, with only final details and Arteta’s approval left before it can be signed off. Kiwior is reportedly already on his way for his medical.
If confirmed, the move would represent one of the most expensive transfers in Porto’s history. Only the signing of Samu Aghehova from Atlético Madrid last year cost them more. Kiwior would also join his international teammate Jan Bednarek, who made the switch from Southampton to Porto earlier this summer.
Arsenal are working in parallel on strengthening their defensive options, with Piero Hincapié of Bayer Leverkusen under consideration as a replacement.
For Kiwior, the move offers the prospect of regular football and a central role at one of Europe’s most successful clubs, something that has eluded him in North London.
