In a move that solidifies their defensive future, FC Porto has officially secured Polish international Jakub Kiwior on a permanent transfer from Arsenal. The 26-year-old defender, who originally joined the Gunners from Spezia in January 2023, made 68 appearances in North London but often found himself on the fringes of Mikel Arteta's starting eleven.
Kiwior's path to Portugal began last summer when he joined Porto on a season-long loan with an obligation to buy—a decision that has proven mutually beneficial. The center-back has been a revelation in the Primeira Liga, featuring in 38 matches across all competitions and starting all 25 league games he played in. His consistent performances were instrumental in helping Porto clinch their first league title since 2022 just last week.
The permanent deal is valued at €17 million (£15 million), with an additional €5 million in potential add-ons. Arsenal have also secured a 20% sell-on clause, meaning they'll earn €2 million from any future transfer, while Porto has inserted a hefty €70 million release clause into Kiwior's four-year contract. For the Polish defender, this move represents a fresh start with no regrets—he's already celebrating a championship and carving out a key role in a top European side.
Meanwhile, Arsenal are busy writing their own success story. The Gunners are in the hunt for both the Premier League and Champions League titles, having booked their place in the Champions League final after a thrilling 2-1 aggregate win over Atletico Madrid in the semi-finals. To fill the void left by Kiwior, Arsenal brought in Piero Hincapie and Cristhian Mosquera, both of whom have been crucial to the team's impressive campaign.
With injuries derailing their Carabao Cup and FA Cup runs this season, Arteta is already planning summer squad changes to deepen the roster and mount a stronger challenge for the quadruple next term. For now, though, all eyes are on the Premier League and that Champions League final—two trophies that would cap off a remarkable season for the Gunners.