Romano confirms "extraordinary" player will join Arsenal on long-term deal

Arsenal are close to signing Polish defender Jakub Kiwior on a long-term deal, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

The 22-year-old is set to join the Gunners from Italian side Spezia, with the transfer expected to be completed soon.

"Jakub Kiwior will sign his contract later today - he will be unveiled as new Arsenal player until June 2028, deal set to be announced," Romano tweeted on Monday.

"Medical tests have been successfully completed on Saturday."

Arsenal are expected to pay a fee in the region of £21million for the Poland international, according to The Evening Standard.

He will be Mikel Arteta's second signing of the transfer window, joining Leandro Trossard at the north London club.

Kiwior was in attendance for the Gunners' 3-2 victory over Manchester United at the Emirates on Sunday - a result which saw them extend their lead at the top of the table to five points.

Serie A giants AC Milan and Juventus were also interested in signing Kiwior, who started all four of Poland's matches at the World Cup in Qatar.

Lewandowski: He is 'extraordinary'

Speaking last year, Barcelona and Poland striker Robert Lewandowski described Kiwior as an "extraordinary" player.

The 34-year-old stated: “He has great potential. During the warm-up of the game with the Netherlands, I thought: ‘Who is this guy?’ Then, during the match, I saw that he is extraordinary.

"He is a boy who wants to learn and has humility. Even if he makes a few mistakes, he doesn’t get discouraged and quickly draws conclusions. He’s a player who can help us be a better team."

And the former Bayern Munich player isn't alone in his thoughts. Reacting to initial reports of a deal being agreed for Kiwior, Serie A expert Matteo Bonetti praised Arsenal's business.

Bonetti wrote on Twitter: "Good scouting from Arsenal here. Kiwior has been very impressive for Spezia. Looks very composed for his age - should develop into a starter long term.

"Kiwior's ability on the ball is likely what got the interest of Arsenal. Nice passing range and confident building out from the back."

On the 22-year-old's versatility, Bonetti added: "Also worth noting that Kiwior has played 21 matches as a defensive midfielder in his career, compared to 97 as a centre-back and nine times at left-back."