In a decisive move, Arsenal has once again turned down transfer requests for two of their key players, Jakub Kiwior and Takehiro Tomiyasu.
The club’s unwavering stance, particularly in retaining Tomiyasu, who is currently in contract talks, signals their intent to maintain a strong defensive lineup despite external interest.
Arsenal have firmly rejected Napoli‘s latest approach for two of their players, Jakub Kiwior and Takehiro Tomiyasu, with the club being especially adamant about keeping Tomiyasu, who is reportedly in talks for a new contract.
This refusal highlights Arsenal’s clear intention to hold onto key players despite interest from other clubs.
Napoli, in their ongoing search for reinforcements, expressed interest in signing Kiwior and Tomiyasu. However, according to journalist Ciro Venerato, whose comments were reported by Area Napoli, Arsenal’s response was a resolute ‘no’.
“Last night too, Arsenal reiterated their no for Kiwior and (above all) Tomiyasu, the true passion of the Campania management,” Venerato said. This strong stance from Arsenal comes despite the Italian side’s continued efforts.
Earlier, on January 3rd, it was reported that Arsenal had already turned down two loan offers for these key defenders. This report came as AC Milan, actively seeking defensive reinforcements, had shown interest in loaning both Kiwior and Tomiyasu.
However, according to Gazzetta dello Sport, Arsenal are not inclined to part with either player, leading Milan to shift their focus towards other targets, including Lilian Brassier from Brest, valued at around €10 million.
Arsenal’s decision to retain Tomiyasu is underpinned by their plans for his future at the club. The 25-year-old Japanese defender, who has made 73 appearances for Arsenal since signing in 2021 for €18.6m, is in talks over a new contract.
His current deal, which expires in 2025 and sees him earn around £56k-per-week, is expected to see a significant increase in salary with the new contract.
Tomiyasu is set to represent Japan in the upcoming 18th AFC Asian Cup in Qatar, playing against Indonesia, Iraq, and Vietnam in the group stages. Japan, previous Asian Cup winners, will be looking to claim the title they last won in 2011.