Nigerian defender Kayode attracting interest from Arsenal

Premier League giants Arsenal recently sent scouts to watch Italy-born Nigerian right-back Michael Kayode, who currently plays for Fiorentina in the Serie A.

Kayode broke into Fiorentina’s first team this season and has already made six appearances, providing an assist in the recent 3-0 win over Cagliari.

According to Football Italia, representatives from Arsenal and Italy coach Luciano Spalletti were in the stands in Fiorentina’s recent game keeping a close eye on the talented 19-year-old.

A product of Juventus’ youth system, Kayode spent seven years attached to the club before joining Serie D side Gozzano, initially on a two-year loan before making a permanent move in 2020.

After a year with Gozzano, he headed to Fiorentina’s Primavera squad, where he spent two seasons.

Kayode shot into the limelight this summer when he scored the decisive goal in Italy’s 1-0 win over Portugal in the U-19 European Championship final in July.

In September, he was on the bench for the Italy U-21 side, showing his quick rise at national level.

He made his debut in Fiorentina’s 4-1 win over Genoa at the start of this season and was briefly benched by new signing Dodo before the Brazilian suffered a knee injury, affording him more space in Vincenzo Italiano’s squad.

Earning just €30,000 net per season, he is contracted to Fiorentina until June 2025, which could be extended by another year.

Also, the club is keen to tie him down to a new deal, however, with a pay raise reflective of his potential.