Arsenal have yet to release Jakub Kiwior to Porto and Hincapié’s signing could influence
Jakub Kiwior’s move to Porto is on hold as Arsenal have yet to authorize the defender’s release, despite an agreement already being in place with the Portuguese club.
Deal with Porto agreed
The 25-year-old Polish international has reached a deal with FC Porto for a one-year loan with an obligation to buy worth €26 million (R$164m). Medicals were expected this week, but Arsenal has not yet given the green light.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the London club is still weighing its options and will decide in the next 48 hours.
Hincapié key to Arsenal’s decision
The delay stems from Arsenal’s pursuit of Piero Hincapié, the 23-year-old Ecuadorian defender from Bayer Leverkusen. Hincapié has reportedly asked to leave, and Arsenal have already initiated talks.
If the Gunners secure his signing, Kiwior will be cleared to join Porto. Without a replacement, however, Arsenal may block the move.
Kiwior’s time at Arsenal
Signed from Spezia in 2023, Kiwior quickly became a reliable option for Mikel Arteta. He has made 68 appearances, scoring three goals and providing five assists.
The left-footed centre-back featured heavily in last season’s Champions League run, starting in key knockout games as Arsenal reached the semifinals. However, he has yet to feature in the current campaign.
Career path so far
Though Polish, Kiwior has spent nearly his entire career abroad. His youth career began at Anderlecht, followed by stints at Podbrezová and Žilina in Slovakia, before breaking out in Italy with Spezia.
