AC Milan complete signing of defender Jakub Kiwior from Arsenal

AC Milan have signed Polish international defender Jakub Kiwior from Arsenal in a deal worth €25m plus add-ons, both clubs confirmed on Thursday. The 24-year-old has agreed a five-year contract with the Serie A side through June 2029.

Kiwior arrives at Milanello after 18 months at Arsenal, where he made 32 appearances across all competitions following his €25m move from Spezia in January 2023. Primarily used as a left-back cover by Mikel Arteta, the center-back struggled for consistent starting opportunities in North London.

The transfer addresses Milan's need for defensive reinforcements after finishing second in Serie A last season. Director Paolo Maldini had identified left-footed defenders as a priority, with Kiwior's ability to play multiple positions adding tactical flexibility. Arsenal recoup their initial investment while streamlining a squad that previously carried eight senior defenders.

Kiwior's familiarity with Italian football – having spent two seasons at Spezia before joining Arsenal – likely accelerated the negotiations. The former Anderlecht youth product becomes Milan's third summer signing following deals for striker Joshua Zirkzee and midfielder Youssouf Fofana.

His departure leaves Arsenal with Gabriel Magalhães and William Saliba as primary center-back options, though Jurriën Timber can provide cover following his return from injury. Milan begin their Serie A campaign against Torino on August 17.