Jakub Kiwior has completed a permanent transfer to Porto after the Portuguese club activated the option to buy that was included in his loan agreement. Arsenal confirmed the departure on their official website on Wednesday.

The 26-year-old Polish defender spent two-and-a-half years at Arsenal, arriving from Italian club Spezia in January 2023. Over that period, he made 68 appearances for the Gunners, earning a reputation for versatility and earning widespread respect within the squad.

Among the highlights of his time in north London, Kiwior picked up a Community Shield winners' medal in 2023. His most memorable performances in an Arsenal shirt, however, came in the two legs against Real Madrid during the 2024/25 UEFA Champions League quarter-finals.

A successful season at Porto

Last season, Kiwior joined Porto on loan and quickly established himself as a key figure in their defensive setup. He made 42 appearances across all competitions, including 26 in the Primeira Liga — a title-winning campaign in which Porto conceded only 18 goals, claiming the championship for the first time in four seasons.

Before his move to Arsenal, Kiwior began his professional career at Slovakian club FK Zeleziarne Podbrezova, then transferred to Zilina. He subsequently moved to Spezia in Italy, spending 18 months there before earning his transfer to Emirates Stadium.

Poland international departs with 45 caps

Kiwior represented Poland through various youth levels before making his senior international debut in 2022. He has since earned 45 caps for his country.

Arsenal signed off with warm words for the departing defender.