London, September 7, 2025 – Arsenal have initiated talks to secure their seventh signing of the summer transfer window, targeting a highly-rated Ligue 1 star to replace Jakub Kiwior, who is valued at £17.6m and considering an exit from the Emirates. According to reports from Metro and Football-Addict, the Gunners have made ‘initial contact’ with Rennes to discuss a potential move for 20-year-old defender Jeremy Jacquet, as manager Mikel Arteta looks to bolster his defensive options before the transfer deadline on September 8, 2025.

Kiwior, who joined Arsenal from Spezia in January 2023 for £17.6m, has been linked with a move away due to his struggle for regular playing time behind William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes. With Porto pushing for a loan deal with an obligation to buy and interest from Serie A clubs like Napoli, Arsenal are proactively seeking a replacement. Jacquet, a versatile defender capable of playing in a three- or four-man defense or as a full-back, has impressed at Rennes, where he signed a contract extension until 2029 last season. His 11 Ligue 1 appearances in 2024/25, mostly as a starter, have caught Arteta’s attention.

The Gunners’ interest in Jacquet is strategic, with Arsenal reportedly open to signing him this month if Kiwior departs or deferring the move to next summer if no exits occur. “Arsenal like Jacquet, who recently signed a new deal at Rennes until June 2029,” transfer expert Fabrizio Romano noted. “He’s on the list as an option in case of exits this month… or eventually for 2026.” The France U21 international’s adaptability and potential make him an ideal fit for Arteta’s system, which prioritizes young, dynamic defenders.

However, the talks are in early stages, and Arsenal’s ability to finalize the deal hinges on outgoing transfers. The club’s recent signings, including Eberechi Eze (£67.5m) and Piero Hincapie, have already strengthened the squad, but losing Kiwior without a replacement could strain their depth in a demanding season. Fans on X are buzzing with anticipation, with some praising the proactive approach: “Jacquet could be our next Saliba!” (@GoonerVibes), while others urge caution: “Don’t let Kiwior go until we’ve got this sorted!” (@ArsenalPulse).

With the transfer window closing soon, Arsenal’s sporting director Andrea Berta faces a race against time to secure Jacquet and maintain defensive stability. The outcome of these negotiations could shape Arsenal’s Premier League and Champions League campaigns.