Jakub Kiwior to Arsenal: Premier League leaders complete signing of Poland defender from Spezia

Arsenal have signed Poland defender Jakub Kiwior from Spezia in a deal reportedly worth £20 million.

The 22-year-old has joined Mikel Arteta’s Premier League leaders on a long-term contract, said a statement.

The length of the contract was not specified, while The Athletic say the deal is worth “in excess of €20m”.

“It’s great that Jakub is joining us. He’s a young versatile defender who has shown huge potential and qualities with Spezia in Serie A, and also at international level with Poland,” said Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta.

“Jakub is a player who will give us strength and quality to our defensive unit. We welcome Jakub and his family to Arsenal and look forward to working with him.”

Kiwior impressed playing in a back three for Spezia after joining the Serie A side from Slovakian outfit MSK Zilina in August 2021.

He won his first Poland cap in June last year and subsequently earned a place in his country’s World Cup squad, starting every match as they reached the last 16 before losing to France.

Kiwior has been a regular for Spezia this season, making 20 appearances in all competitions before his mid-season switch to the Emirates.

“We’re delighted to have completed the signing of Jakub Kiwior,” said Arsenal sporting director Edu.

“He’s a young talent who we’ve been monitoring for a while now. We are now all looking forward to working with Jakub and seeing his continued development with us. We welcome Jakub to Arsenal.”

Kiwior is Arsenal’s second January signing following the capture of Leandro Trossard from Brighton.

He will bolster Arteta’s ranks as they look to end a 20-year wait to win the Premier League title on the back of an electric start.

Arsenal defeated Manchester United 3-2 on Sunday in a thriller decided by a last-gasp Eddie Nketiah winner, keeping them five points clear on top of the standings at the midway stage of the season.