Arsenal defender 'could leave on loan' in the January transfer window amid Serie A 'interest'

Arsenal centre-back Jakub Kiwior is a transfer target for Serie A giants AC Milan and he could move to the San Siro on loan in the January transfer window, reports suggest.

This is according to 90min as Milan have an injury crisis at the back and are looking to bring Kiwior in to ameliorate this. Additionally, the 19-cap Polish international is keen to get more playing time in a senior team capacity.

So far this season, Kiwior has made 11 appearances in all competitions for the Gunners, but has yet to score a goal or register an assist. Currently, he is viewed as a back-up player at the Emirates Stadium, behind the likes of Ben White, Gabriel and William Saliba.

Additionally, Jurrien Timber could also play at centre-half upon his return from injury - which would see Kiwior fall even further down in the pecking order. Despite this, the seriousness of Timber's injury could keep him out of action for most of the 2023/24 season.

Should Arsenal allow Jakub Kiwior to leave on loan in January?

As mentioned, Kiwior is firmly used as a back-up option by Mikel Arteta. His deficiencies have often shown through - he is not as solid as Saliba or Gabriel, nor is he as technically adept as White.

Despite this, Kiwior is a useful player to have in the squad for his adaptability. He is best suited to playing as a central defender, but he can also function as a defensive midfielder (where he generally played during his time at Spezia) and as a left-back.

On top of this, Arsenal could be left short of options at the back if they let Kiwior leave - especially if one of their three natural centre-backs suffers an injury. Due to this, they will likely bring a replacement on board if they do decide to loan him out.