Arsenal could sell Jakub Kiwior in the upcoming summer transfer window and pursue a deal for Ajax’s outstanding young defender Jorrel Hato.
Kiwior told Polish outlet Super Express last month that he would like to play more at Arsenal and that he was flattered by reported interest in him from Serie A sides AC Milan and Roma.
“The 23-year-old center-back was acquired from Spezia last winter for a fee that could rise to €25 million, but he has yet to make significant progress under Mikel Arteta.
Although he has occasionally been deployed at left-back, he finds himself behind Oleksandr Zinchenko, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and others in the pecking order.
There appears to be no clear path for Kiwior. Despite his preference for playing at center-back, he remains far behind established duo William Saliba and Gabriel in that role.
As a result, reports from Italy have linked the Poland international with a potential departure, with both Milan and Roma expressing interest in acquiring him.
Since joining from Spezia, Kiwior has only made 26 appearances for Arsenal, prompting speculation that the club may consider selling him to reinvest in a promising young Dutch international.
Jorrel Hato is widely considered the top defensive prospect in the Netherlands, with the 17-year-old recently earning his senior international debut.
Remarkably, he has played every minute for Ajax this season and has even served as captain on two occasions, making him the youngest skipper in the club’s prestigious history.
Primarily a natural center-back, Hato is also capable of playing at left-back, making him a suitable option for Arsenal should they decide to replace Kiwior.
Arsenal has established strong ties with Ajax following the transfer of Jurrien Timber last summer, and there’s speculation that the Gunners could pursue the young talent this year as well.
Regarding Timber’s transfer, Hato reportedly told ELF Voetbal: “The move to Arsenal was fantastic for him [Timber]. It’s also my dream to make such a transfer one day, but I understand that I still have a long way to go.”
Due to post-Brexit regulations, Hato can only make the move when he turns 18, which is set to happen in March. This could present Arsenal with an opportunity to finalize a deal.
However, Ajax remains hopeful of extending the defender’s contract, which currently has 18 months remaining, once he reaches the age of 18. Any new contract is expected to include a significant salary increase.
Hato received high praise from his teammate Jordan Henderson this week, with the Englishman stating on the club’s official website: “It’s incredible how young he is, yet how mature he appears both on and off the pitch. He’s a very mature individual, works diligently, and is a fantastic player. He undoubtedly has a bright future ahead of him.”
Hato made his senior debut in January 2023, becoming the third-youngest player in club history, behind Ryan.