Report: Napoli Determined to Sign 'Versatile' Arsenal Defender

Yahoo

18-05-2025

Napoli revisit Kiwior interest as summer rebuild begins
Napoli are once again turning their attention to Jakub Kiwior as they look to bolster their defensive ranks ahead of a crucial summer transfer window. The 24-year-old Poland international is under contract at Arsenal until 2028, but is now attracting renewed interest from Serie A – with the Naples-based club leading the chase.
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After a testing spell adapting to Premier League life, Kiwior's stock has risen following a string of solid performances in the latter part of the 2024/25 campaign. Arsenal's asking price currently stands at around €35 million (£30m), with Napoli weighing up their next move.
Champions League return gives Napoli leverage
Napoli's pursuit of Kiwior is not without competition. AC Milan have also expressed interest in the former Spezia defender, but it is Napoli who hold a potential edge. The club has qualified for next season's UEFA Champions League – a factor that could prove persuasive in negotiations.
Kiwior's representatives, who also manage Napoli midfielder Stanislav Lobotka, are said to be fielding multiple offers. Yet Napoli's longstanding admiration for the player and their status in European competition might make them an attractive destination. The club previously attempted to bring Kiwior in during the January window, but Arsenal rejected a loan proposal.
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Arsenal open to sale but value must be met
Arsenal have shown reluctance to part with Kiwior in the past, particularly after Gabriel Magalhães' injury created opportunities for the Pole to feature regularly. His increased involvement towards the end of the season did not go unnoticed. Mikel Arteta handed him a consistent run of starts, and Kiwior responded with composed displays, offering tactical flexibility and reliable cover on the left side of defence.
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However, the North London club remain open to business if their valuation is matched. Arsenal are believed to view the €35 million asking price as fair, especially considering Kiwior's age, potential resale value, and the club's broader plans in the transfer market.
Italy return on the cards for Kiwior
For Kiwior, a return to Serie A could provide the regular minutes and tactical environment that best suit his strengths. His previous spell with Spezia saw him blossom into one of the league's most promising young defenders, ultimately earning his move to the Emirates in January 2023.
Whether Napoli can finalise a deal may come down to how aggressively they move in the early stages of the window. With Milan also in the race and Arsenal under no immediate pressure to sell, time may be of the essence.
'Napoli have returned decisively to Jakub Kiwior, Arsenal's centre-back with a contract until 2028.'
'The agents, the same as Lobotka, have received multiple offers, but the blue club has an advantage: he will play in the Champions League and had already sought him in the past.'
'In January, Napoli had attempted a loan, but Arsenal rejected it. Now the Gunners are asking for around 35 million for the player, who at the end of the season became a starter for Arteta.'