Arsenal REJECTED bid last month for player Mikel Arteta likes
The future of one Arsenal first-team player remains uncertain despite the club’s preference to retain his services.
Arsenal turned down an approach from Portugal for Jakub Kiwior during July, as the Polish international’s future at the Emirates Stadium continues to generate speculation across Europe, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The 24-year-old centre-back has attracted interest from multiple clubs this summer, with several sides monitoring his situation closely. Mikel Arteta would prefer to keep Kiwior as part of his defensive options for the upcoming campaign.
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However, while his boss is keen for him to stay in North London, the decision on any potential move may ultimately rest with the player himself, and his desire for increased playing time could be an ultimate factor.
Since arriving from Serie A side Spezia in January 2023 for £20million, Kiwior has made 64 appearances for the Gunners across all competitions. However, regular first-team opportunities have proved elusive, with the Poland international managing just ten Premier League starts this season.
The versatile defender’s ability to operate at both centre-back and left-back has made him an attractive proposition for clubs across Europe. Serie A sides including AC Milan, Napoli, Inter Milan and Juventus have all registered interest in recent months.
Arsenal have reportedly set a valuation in the region of £35million for the defender, reflecting his continued importance to the squad despite limited minutes. When Gabriel Magalhães suffered a hamstring injury last season, the Pole impressed with his ability when slotting into the side.
With Arsenal signing the young Cristhian Mosquera from Valencia this summer, a departure for Kiwior could now be seen as more likely.
During Arsenal’s pre-season tour in Asia, the 25 year-old featured as a substitute in all three games, with the Gunners having now returned to England for their final preparations before the Premier League campaign gets underway later this month.