Arsenal Poised for Defensive Overhaul as Kiwior Nears Porto Move

August 26, 2025 – Arsenal Football Club is on the brink of a significant defensive reshuffle, with Polish defender Jakub Kiwior close to joining FC Porto in a deal worth €26 million. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reports that Porto is awaiting Arsenal’s final decision within the next 24-48 hours, with the move contingent on internal discussions at the Emirates Stadium. Kiwior, who joined Arsenal from Spezia for £20 million in January 2023, has struggled for regular starts, making only 12 Premier League appearances in the 2023-24 season, often serving as a versatile backup.

The potential departure is linked to Arsenal’s pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen’s Piero Hincapié, a 23-year-old Ecuadorian defender with a £52 million release clause. Sources indicate Arsenal is negotiating a loan deal with an obligation to buy, aiming to bolster their backline under Mikel Arteta. This strategic pivot reflects Arsenal’s summer spending spree, exceeding £200 million, as they seek to balance high-profile acquisitions with squad pruning. Kiwior’s exit could provide financial flexibility, aligning with a UEFA trend where top clubs recoup 20-30% of transfer fees through sales. The coming days will be crucial as Arsenal finalizes its defensive blueprint for the Premier League season.