Jakub Kiwior still has his heart set back on a move back to Italy because of his lack of chances at Arsenal, TBR Football can exclusively reveal.
Owing to Gabriel Magalhaes’ season-ending injury, Kiwior started for Arsenal in their historic 3-0 win over Real Madrid in the Champions League.
Kiwior impressed against Kylian Mbappe, even if he did need a little bit of time to settle down at the Emirates Stadium.
The Arsenal defender has made 20 appearances in total this season but has only amassed 1,255 minutes – Mikel Arteta simply sees the Poland international as Gabriel’s back up.
And whilst Arsenal are delighted to have such strong defensive cover, it’s not a role that is satisfying Kiwior right now.
Jakub Kiwior is still determined to leave Arsenal
That being said, TBR Football chief correspondent Graeme Bailey can reveal that Kiwior wants to leave Arsenal this summer regardless of what happens before the end of the season.
It’s understood that Kiwior appreciates his role under Arteta and how he has progressed since joining.
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However, Kiwior knows that unless William Saliba or Gabriel leave, he is not going to be starting in his favoured central role anytime soon.
Kiwior’s two years in Italy with Spezia were hugely positive for him and ideally he would like to return to Italian football and there is no shortage of interest in him.
Juventus, Napoli and Bologna are all keen, whilst TBR can reveal that champions-elect Inter Milan are also considering a move.
Juventus were in attendance to watch Kiwior against Madrid on Tuesday evening and Inter also had representatives at the game.
Although, whilst Inter were checking on Kiwior, the Nerazzurri were also present to scout possible future opposition in the competition.
Mikel Arteta doesn’t want to lose Jakub Kiwior
As mentioned, Arsenal would prefer to keep Kiwior this summer – the club wants him to stay.
And when speaking at a press conference almost a week ago, Arteta perhaps outlined why he’s so keen to keep the 25-year-old at the Emirates Stadium.
Arteta said: “Well, the good thing with Jakub is that he’s been very reliable. We need him, he’s always there, he’s available and he does his job.
“We ask him to play as a left centre-back, as a right centre-back, as a left full-back, so he’s ready, he was with a smile on his face, he was sad for Gabriel but he really wanted to play as well and he will be fine.”
An excellent squad player, but unfortunately Kiwior’s stance hasn’t changed despite his recent chances.
