Introduction
Jakub Kiwior, the 25-year-old Polish centre-back, is on the verge of leaving Arsenal as part of a major summer transfer move. According to TransferFeed, Portuguese giants FC Porto have reached an agreement with the Gunners over a loan deal that includes an obligation to buy. With an estimated fee of €25–26 million, potentially rising to around £30 million including bonuses, this deal marks a significant turning point for both the player and the club.
Transfer Structure and Details
The deal between Arsenal and Porto has been structured as a loan with an obligation to buy, which essentially means Porto will initially take the player on loan but are legally bound to make the transfer permanent. This structure often helps clubs manage finances while still securing long-term commitments.
Arsenal are said to value the defender at close to £30 million, and the reported fee aligns with that expectation. The obligation clause makes it clear that Porto see Kiwior as a key long-term addition rather than a short-term solution.

Why Arsenal Are Open to Selling
Arsenal’s willingness to part ways with Kiwior isn’t surprising. The London club are keen to strengthen their defensive options and have been linked with Bayer Leverkusen’s Piero Hincapié as a potential replacement. Selling Kiwior would help free up both squad space and funds for that incoming transfer.
The Polish international has struggled for consistent playing time since his arrival in January 2023, and while he has shown flashes of promise, regular first-team football has been hard to come by under Mikel Arteta.
Why Porto Want Him?
For Porto, this move makes complete sense. The Portuguese club, led by coach Francesco Farioli, see Kiwior as an ideal fit for their defensive structure. At 25, he is entering his prime years and has experience playing at the highest level in both Serie A and the Premier League. Porto are also looking to strengthen their squad ahead of domestic and European competitions, and Kiwior’s versatility — he can play as a centre-back or a left-back — makes him an attractive option.
Negotiation Drama
The road to this deal wasn’t straightforward. Reports suggest that there were delays in finalizing the paperwork, and even last-minute travel plans were disrupted as the negotiations dragged on. Kiwior himself has reportedly pushed for the move, eager to secure more regular playing opportunities.
Despite interest from clubs such as AC Milan, Wolves, and Crystal Palace, Porto emerged as the frontrunner. Their persistence and financial commitment put them ahead of the competition.
What Happens Next
With verbal agreements in place and documents being prepared, the deal is now heading toward completion. Medical tests and official announcements are expected soon.
If all goes as planned, Kiwior will become a Porto player on loan for the upcoming season before the transfer automatically becomes permanent. For Arsenal, this will mean funds and squad space for a new defensive signing, while Porto will have added a solid, dependable defender with international pedigree.
Conclusion
Jakub Kiwior’s transfer highlights how modern football deals are carefully structured for both financial flexibility and long-term planning. For Arsenal, this is a chance to reshape their backline. For Porto, it is an opportunity to secure a promising defender at the right age to make an impact.
All signs suggest that this move will be finalized soon, bringing an end to Kiwior’s short but eventful spell at Arsenal and opening a new chapter in Portugal.