Arsenal star's future secure as Mikel Arteta reverses transfer decision: report

There has been a unexpected change of plans at Arsenal regarding the departure of a key defender.

Mikel Arteta has brought three players to the club this summer with David Raya, Mikel Merino and Riccardo Calafiori all recruited to help the Gunners. Arsenal finished just two points behind eventual winners Manchester City last season and will be hoping to topple the Sky Blues' sustained period of success in the Premier League.

With exits needed in order to fund further recruitment, one player had been linked with a move away from the Emirates Stadium, but now appears as if the Gunners will be keeping hold of his services until at least January.

Jakub Kiwior, recruited from Spezia back in 2023, has struggled to forge his way into a largely settled Arsenal backline following his arrival at the club. The Poland international therefore had been linked with a move to Juventus and Crystal Palace, amongst other European suitors.

But according to news from Fabrizio Romano, Kiwior is now set to remain at the club beyond this summer, with Arsenal set to address his future again in January. "Arsenal have informed Jakub Kiwior and his camp that he’s not for sale," wrote the popular journalist. 

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“Despite interest from Villarreal and Bologna on loan move, Arsenal want to keep Kiwior at the club. Decision made as [Tomasz Włodarczyk] has reported today.”

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Arteta does have strength in numbers in defence, with Calafiori in particular adding further squad depth. It is also worth remembering Arsenal have once again qualified for the Champions League, so keeping every member of their squad happy will be a huge test. 

Transfermarkt values Kiwior at €30m (£25.2m) and the talented Pole would be a welcome addition to most sides in the Premier League.

FourFourTwo however understands Arsenal needs to keep hold of the 24-year-old, given injury problems have in the past mounted up amid their hopes of success again this term.

Ademola Lookman is ready to reject Arsenal as his preferred move takes significant step. Arsenal could make a transfer u-turn amid six-team chase, while the Gunners have been handed a transfer lifeline after record deal falls through.

Reports say that Arsenal are to replace Eddie Nketiah with a proven striker in a cut-price deal. Meanwhile, Arsenal's 'best-ever' academy graduate has confirmed his exit, in another blow for Gunners.