Arsenal Star’s Future in Doubt Despite Arteta’s Desire to Keep Him

Jakub Kiwior’s Arsenal future remains uncertain with growing interest from clubs across Europe, despite Mikel Arteta’s preference to keep the versatile defender at the Emirates Stadium. The Polish international has become a valued squad member under Arteta, but he is yet to fully cement himself as a first-choice centre-back, which has prompted transfer interest from several suitors.

Arsenal are believed to have already rejected at least one formal approach from a Portuguese club earlier in July, underlining their stance that Kiwior is not currently for sale. However, with the transfer window still open and clubs continuing to assess their defensive options, further offers could be tabled before the deadline.

Kiwior, 24, joined Arsenal from Spezia in January 2023 in a deal worth around £20 million. Initially seen as one for the future, he has featured intermittently in both central defence and at left-back, offering depth and tactical flexibility. While he hasn’t been a consistent starter, Arteta is reportedly impressed by Kiwior’s professionalism, positional awareness, and ability to play out from the back.

Sources close to the club suggest that Arteta would be reluctant to sanction a sale this summer, particularly given the tight fixture schedule and Arsenal’s need for depth across all competitions. The manager has been vocal in his desire to maintain a strong squad that can cope with the demands of domestic and European football.

Nonetheless, interest from across the continent is testing Arsenal’s resolve. Serie A and Bundesliga sides are monitoring the situation, aware that Kiwior might be tempted by the promise of regular first-team football elsewhere. With Riccardo Calafiori now added to Arsenal’s defensive ranks, competition for places has intensified, and Kiwior could find himself further down the pecking order.

There is no indication yet that the player is actively pushing for a move. Kiwior is understood to be focused on impressing in training and believes he still has a role to play in North London. However, much could depend on Arsenal’s activity in the remainder of the transfer window, as well as any potential outgoings that could shift the balance of defensive options.

From Arsenal’s point of view, selling Kiwior would only be considered if a substantial offer is made and a replacement is lined up. The Gunners remain determined to challenge on all fronts this season, and losing a quality defensive option like Kiwior without a plan in place would be seen as a risk.

As it stands, the Poland international’s future remains open. While Arteta values him highly and the club has turned away at least one offer already, continued interest from ambitious European clubs means that a late twist in Kiwior’s Arsenal story cannot be ruled out.

Whether he stays to fight for his place or departs in search of regular starts, the next few weeks could prove decisive in shaping the next chapter of Jakub Kiwior’s career.