Arsenal are nearing the signing of Spezia and Poland defender Jakub Kiwior as they look to maintain their Premier League title challenge.
The Athletic reports that the Gunners are closing in on a deal worth €20million (£17.5million). Kiwior will look to push William Saliba and Gabriel for a starting spot at the heart of Arsenal’s defence and the acquisition of another centre-back provides invaluable depth for Arteta’s squad.
We’ve collected together everything that you need to know about Arsenal’s new signing to impress your mates down the pub…
Career so far
Born in February 2000, Kiwior is a product of the famous Anderlecht youth academy that has produced stars like Vincent Kompany, Romelu Lukaku and Youri Tielemans.
He then made his professional debut for Zeleziarne Podbrezova in a Polish league match against Nitra just four days after his 19th birthday.
Kiwior made just 16 appearances, scoring once, before moving to MSK Zilina in Slovakia the following summer. His two-year spell at the club was marked with difficulty, as Zilina entered liquidation in an attempt to financially survive the coronavirus pandemic, but he impressed with his composed performances.
Kiwior’s form caught the attention of Serie A side Spezia, who signed him on a four-year-deal in August 2021.
After continuing his progression in Italy, the defender made his international debut for Poland during a Nations League draw against the Netherlands last June.
He went on to play all four of Poland’s 2022 World Cup matches, forming part of a sturdy rearguard that helped his country progress from the group stages for the first time in 36 years.
As a player bursting with potential, and with an increasingly impressive back catalogue of displays behind him, Kiwior attracted attention from AC Milan, Roma and West Ham over the summer.
But it’s Premier League leaders Arsenal that have taken the plunge. After agreeing a fee with Spezia, word on the ground is that Kiwior will fly to London this weekend, and perhaps take in the crucial game against Manchester United.
With Arsenal fighting for the title, alongside the FA Cup and Europa League, Kiwior will provide instant backup for Arteta, while also possessing the ability to make himself a first-team stalwart at the Emirates.
READ: Ranking the 20 centre-backs Arsenal have signed since Sol Campbell left
Style of play
After playing much of his career in midfield, Kiwior has been playing in a deeper role for Spezia this season,…
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