Arsenal BLOCK €27M Transfer for Star – Arteta Says No!

Arsenal have reportedly turned down a formal proposal from Portuguese giants FC Porto for defender Jakub Kiwior, underlining Mikel Arteta’s desire to keep the Polish international at the club amid increasing interest from across Europe.

The offer, which included a loan deal with an obligation to buy for €27 million, was submitted last week but was swiftly rejected by the Gunners. Arsenal’s decision reflects both their valuation of the player and their long-term squad planning, with Arteta still viewing Kiwior as an important part of his defensive unit heading into the 2025/26 season.

Arsenal not willing to lose Kiwior yet

The 24-year-old centre-back has been the subject of mounting speculation this summer, with clubs in Portugal, Italy, and Germany monitoring his situation closely. While Kiwior hasn’t nailed down a guaranteed starting role in north London, his versatility and left-footed profile have proven valuable for Arteta during rotational periods and in managing injuries.

LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 23: Jakub Kiwior of Arsenal looks on during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Crystal Palace FC at Emirates Stadium on April 23, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Kiwior joined Arsenal from Spezia in January 2023 for a fee in the region of £21 million. Despite limited starts in the Premier League, he has impressed in his appearances, particularly in domestic cup competitions and in Europe. His performances have made him a reliable backup option behind Gabriel Magalhães and William Saliba, while also offering cover at left-back when needed.

Why Arsenal said no

The rejected bid from Porto highlights Arsenal’s stance: they do not consider €27 million — even with a guaranteed purchase — a sufficient valuation of the defender’s growing potential and current role in the squad. More importantly, Mikel Arteta is believed to still rate Kiwior highly and wants to retain depth as Arsenal return to Champions League football once again and look to push for the Premier League title.

In addition, Kiwior’s relatively young age and technical quality — especially as a ball-playing defender — make him a profile Arsenal would be reluctant to lose unless a major offer arrives. With Gabriel, Saliba, and Jurrien Timber already part of the defensive core, Arteta sees Kiwior as a key part of maintaining squad stability over the course of a long campaign.

Interest remains high

Despite the rejection, interest in Kiwior is expected to persist until the end of the window. Serie A sides such as AC Milan and Napoli have also previously shown interest, while Porto may return with an improved offer or attempt to negotiate a different structure.

Arsenal’s transfer business this summer has focused on strengthening the attack and midfield, but departures — especially from squad players like Kiwior, Reiss Nelson, or Fábio Vieira — could still influence further incomings. However, it appears clear that unless a club meets Arsenal’s valuation outright or offers a significantly improved package, Jakub Kiwior will remain in north London for at least another season.

As things stand, Kiwior is expected to travel with the squad for upcoming fixtures and is very much part of Arteta’s plans — unless a dramatic development changes the equation.