The youngster has the potential to be one of the best full-backs to come out of Italy in recent times
Arsenal have their eyes firmly trained on Fiorentina’s exciting youngster Michael Kayode, who has set tongues wagging in Serie A, Soccernet.ng reports.
Kayode, 19, had never played in the Italian top flight before this campaign. But the 19-year-old has earned his spot in Fiorentina’s senior squad this season, notching up five appearances across various competitions, including four in Serie A.
The teenager was particularly impressive in Fiorentina’s most recent match against Cagliari.
Kayode smartly executed a crucial goalline clearance and delivered a low cross that led to an own goal, contributing to Fiorentina’s impressive 3-0 victory, propelling the club to fifth place in the table.
Reports from Italian outlet Football News 24 suggest that Kayode’s “exponential growth” has piqued the interest of clubs outside of Italy, with Arsenal at the forefront of the pursuit.
The Gunners, reportedly, dispatched a scout to closely observe the young defender during the entire 90 minutes of his recent match.
According to the same report, Arsenal officials were notably impressed with Kayode’s performance at the Stadio Artemio Franchi. Currently contracted until 2025, with an option for an additional year, Kayode commands an annual salary of €30,000.
Fiorentina, however, are eager to secure his services for the long term, possibly offering substantially improved terms to keep him within their ranks.
Kayode’s journey began in the Juventus youth system, where he honed his skills before spending three formative years in Fiorentina’s academy.
Born in Borgonamero, Italy, to Nigerian parents, he has represented Italy at the U-18 and U-19 levels.
Although invited for European U-21 Championship qualifying matches against Latvia and Turkey in September, he remained an unused substitute in both fixtures.
The young full-back remains eligible to play for Nigeria’s Super Eagles, but he is also on the radar of Italian national team head coach, Luciano Spalletti.
