David Ornstein: Arsenal ‘reach agreement’ for €27m defender | OneFootball

Porto Close in on Arsenal’s Jakub Kiwior as Hincapie Move Progresses

Porto agree deal with Arsenal

Porto have reached an agreement with Arsenal to sign Jakub Kiwior for a guaranteed €25m, rising to €27m, according to David Ornstein. The 25-year-old has personal terms agreed and is ready to join the Portuguese giants once Arsenal secure Piero Hincapie from Bayer Leverkusen.

Photo IMAGO

Arsenal plan defensive reshuffle

The move signals Arsenal’s intent to refresh their defensive options. Kiwior’s departure, coupled with a potential Hincapie arrival, highlights a strategic push to add versatility and competition at the back.

Photo: IMAGO

Kiwior’s Arsenal tenure

Signed from Spezia in 2023, Kiwior featured in multiple roles under Mikel Arteta but never fully secured a consistent starting berth. Porto’s interest offers him a key role in a Champions League side.

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This feels like a calculated decision that reflects the club’s ambition to evolve rather than settle. Kiwior has been a valuable squad player, offering depth and versatility, but Arsenal’s push to sign Piero Hincapie suggests a shift toward a defender with more top-level experience and long-term potential. While many fans will appreciate Kiwior’s professionalism, the move to Porto appears mutually beneficial.

For Arsenal, a guaranteed €25m fee rising to €27m is strong business. Those funds can help strengthen other areas while ensuring the backline is well-prepared for a campaign that includes Champions League ambitions. Hincapie, a key player for Bayer Leverkusen under Xabi Alonso, represents a step up in profile and is well-suited to Mikel Arteta’s tactical demands.

Porto gain a player entering his prime years, and Kiwior will benefit from more regular football in a league known for developing talent. For Arsenal, this is part of a wider trend of squad evolution, ensuring competition remains fierce across all positions. Fans may feel some disappointment at Kiwior’s exit, but if Hincapie’s signing is confirmed, it will underline the club’s growing ability to attract elite-level talent while maintaining squad balance.

Ultimately, this looks like a forward-thinking deal that suits all parties, demonstrating Arsenal’s growing maturity in the transfer market.