Rumors are swirling around Italian football circles, with AC Milan reportedly eyeing a potential summer swoop for Arsenal’s promising defender, Jakub Kiwior, as per The Standard.
The interest from Serie A clubs, particularly Milan, isn’t new. Back in January, several Italian sides expressed their admiration for Kiwior’s talents. However, Arsenal’s management stood firm, unwilling to part ways with the defender midway through the season, given their recent defensive injury woes.
Arsenal’s reluctance to offload Kiwior was evident in their Sunday clash against Liverpool, where the Polish defender made a significant impact, coming off the bench at halftime to aid in Arsenal’s 3-1 triumph. With Oleksandr Zinchenko’s form faltering, Kiwior has seen an uptick in playing time, often filling in at left-back under Mikel Arteta’s guidance.
While Kiwior’s versatility has proven valuable, with Arteta utilizing him in various defensive roles, speculation persists regarding his future at the club. Milan, alongside other Italian suitors, are expected to reignite their interest in the talented defender come the summer transfer window.
Sevilla, too, had a glance at Kiwior last summer, although it remains to be seen if they’ll revive their pursuit of the Polish international in the upcoming window.
In addition to Kiwior, Arsenal is reportedly eyeing another versatile defensive prospect in Jorrel Hato from Ajax, who, like Kiwior, can operate proficiently at both left-back and center-back positions.
Kiwior’s journey to Arsenal saw him make the switch from Spezia last year, in a transfer deal potentially worth £21 million, signaling Arsenal’s belief in his long-term potential. The Polish defender committed his future to the Gunners, signing a contract extension running until 2027, with an additional 12-month option.
As Arsenal looks ahead to the summer, defensive reinforcements are not the only items on Arteta’s shopping list. The Spaniard is also keen on bolstering the midfield and attack, with aspirations of mounting a serious challenge to Manchester City’s dominance in the Premier League.