Napoli are reportedly keeping a close watch on Arsenal defender Jakub Kiwior as they prepare to make a move for the Polish international next summer.

The Serie A giants remain interested in the versatile defender, with their sights set on securing his services in the 2025 transfer window.

Kiwior, who joined Arsenal in January 2023 from Spezia for €19.5 million, has struggled to cement a regular starting spot under Mikel Arteta. Despite flashes of promise, the Polish international has often been left on the fringes of the Gunners’ first team. His limited involvement has now sparked discussions over his long-term future at the Emirates.

According to renowned transfer expert Niccolo Schira, Kiwior is carefully considering his options as he looks to gain more consistent playing time. Napoli, who have monitored his progress since his Serie A days, are eager to swoop in and bring him back to Italy.

Last summer, Napoli, alongside a couple of other Serie A clubs, approached Arsenal for Kiwior. However, Arteta was adamant about retaining the 23-year-old and reportedly turned down all inquiries. The Spanish manager still views Kiwior as a valuable squad member who can contribute across multiple competitions.

Despite Arsenal’s defensive depth, Kiwior has managed just 13 appearances across all competitions this season, providing two assists. While his versatility as a center-back and occasional left-back has proven useful, competition from established players like William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães has made it difficult for Kiwior to claim a consistent spot in Arteta’s plans.

Napoli, on the other hand, see Kiwior as a potential solution to their defensive needs. With their ambition to strengthen the squad for both Serie A and European campaigns, the club is prepared to wait until next summer to finalize a deal.

Reports suggest that Napoli’s interest stems not only from Kiwior’s technical ability but also his familiarity with the Italian league. His successful stint with Spezia, where he impressed with his composure on the ball and defensive solidity, left a lasting impression on Serie A scouts. Napoli believe he could quickly adapt to their system and bolster their backline.

For Kiwior, the prospect of a return to Italy could be tempting. Regular playing time is crucial for his development, especially as he seeks to cement his place in the Polish national team ahead of major international tournaments. At Arsenal, his future remains uncertain, and the lack of starts has fueled speculation about a potential departure.

Arsenal, however, remain reluctant to let Kiwior leave mid-season. With a packed fixture list and ambitions in the Premier League and Europe, Arteta will need all available defensive options. January bids for Kiwior are likely to be rejected, with Arsenal prioritizing squad depth as they aim to compete on multiple fronts.

Napoli, aware of Arsenal’s reluctance to sell in January, are playing the long game. They are prepared to revisit negotiations in the summer of 2025, when circumstances may favor their pursuit. Arsenal could reassess Kiwior’s situation, especially if he fails to break into the first team during the second half of the season.

Meanwhile, fans remain divided over Kiwior’s role at Arsenal. Some believe he deserves more opportunities to showcase his potential, while others see him as a valuable asset who could be sold to fund other transfer targets. Arteta’s handling of Kiwior in the coming months could significantly impact the defender’s future.

The situation also highlights the challenges Arsenal face in managing squad depth. Balancing competition for places with player satisfaction is never easy, especially with ambitious clubs like Napoli lurking in the background.

For Napoli, signing Kiwior could be a major coup. The Polish international’s versatility, defensive qualities, and Serie A experience make him an attractive target. If a deal materializes next summer, it could prove to be a win-win for all parties involved.

As it stands, Napoli remain patient, but their interest in Kiwior is concrete. Arsenal’s stance will likely be tested once again as the summer window approaches. Whether Kiwior stays in North London or makes a return to Italy remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—his future will be a topic of major interest in the coming months.

For now, all eyes are on Mikel Arteta and how he manages the promising defender. Will Arsenal keep hold of Kiwior, or will Napoli’s persistence finally pay off? Only time will tell.

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