Arsenal transfer request changes everything as bid rejected amid Mikel Arteta wish

Arsenal have reportedly rejected a transfer offer for defender Jakub Kiwior this summer, with the club keen to keep the defender in north London beyond the current transfer window.

The 25-year-old has struggled for regular starts at Arsenal, due to the partnership between William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes in the middle of defence. Injury to Gabriel at the end of last season did however see him start the final eight Premier League games of last season.

With Gabriel now recovered, it could see Kiwior return to the bench for the first game of the new season, the signing of Cristhian Mosquera also increases the competition at centre-back. That has led to some speculation over Kiwior’s future at the Emirates Stadium.

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Journalist Fabrizio Romano has now revealed that Arsenal have received interest in the defender from a club in Portugal, but it was batted away by the Gunners. He adds that Kiwior is liked by Mikel Arteta, but there is one thing that could change Arsenal’s stance on a potential sale.

"The market for Arsenal is not over yet. We will see what is going to happen with the Eberechi Eze story in the next days and weeks after the release clause expires,” Romano said on his .

"But in terms of centre-backs, Mosquera joined and we know that it's a very good signing, very good talent. Saliba and Gabriel obviously staying at the club.

"Jakub Kiwior, what happens with Jakub Kiwior... Keep an eye on Kiwior because in July I can reveal to you that a bid from Portugal was turned down by Arsenal.

"So Arsenal rejected a bid, Arteta would love to keep the player, he loves Kiwior. His mentality, his approach. He's always ready when needed.

"But at the same time let's see what happens this month with the player. Because if the player will ask to go, this situation could change.

"Arsenal would love to keep him, Arteta would love to keep him. Let's see what happens, if the player decides to change, in that case Arsenal could bring in a new defender.

"Probably left-footed to help as a CB and LB when needed. Also the Zinchenko situation is one to watch so we will be following, for sure."

Romano has since linked Arsenal with an interest in Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet. The 19-year-old is said to be ‘on the list’ in case of any exits between now and the end of the transfer window.

The teenager is also said to be an option for upcoming windows in 2026. The player has recently signed a new contract with the French club.