Arsenal defender Jakub Kiwior is reportedly subject of a ‘bid’ from Italian giants Napoli, with the Gunners prepared to sell him for the right price next month.
The Polish international has fallen down the pecking order at the Emirates since Riccardo Calafiori’s arrival, although he has played 90 minutes in their last two games.
Kiwior was arguably at fault for Fulham’s goal in Arsenal’s 1-1 draw to Fulham on Saturday. He’s been filling in for Gabriel Magalhaes, who is sidelined with a minor injury.
According to Italian outlet Area Napoli, Antonio Conte is keen to bolster his defensive options at Napoli in January and has identified Kiwior as a target.
The report claims Napoli have ‘held talks’ with Arsenal over a potential move for Kiwior and have ‘made a bid worth €10million (£8.3m / $10.6m)’ for the defender.
Mikel Arteta’s side haven’t entertained this offer, however, and are asking for a minimum of €20million (£16.6m / $21.2m) to consider a mid-season sale.
Napoli have been tipped to speak to Arsenal again in the coming weeks but it’s accepted that they have an ‘uphill’ task to sign the player.
There is no indication over whether Napoli will increase their offer but there is plenty of interest in Italy for Kiwior, which is where he made his name as a Spezia player.
Clubs queue up for Arsenal star
As we reported last month, Arsenal are willing to sell Kiwior but will only consider bids upwards of €20million for him, so the report is accurate in that instance.
It’s also true that Napoli are keen to strengthen their defensive options. Conte wants more competition for the likes of Alessandro Buongiorno and Amir Rrahmani in the centre-back position as he looks to lift the Serie A title this season.
There has also been murmurs for several months now that Kiwior is growing frustrated by being a second-choice player at Arsenal.
