Arsenal look to sign Fiorentina's Nigeria-eligible fullback Michael Kayode during transfer window

ENGLISH Premier League giants Arsenal have set their sights on bringing Fiorentina's Nigeria-eligible teenage fullback Michael Kayode to England during the forthcoming January transfer window.

Kayode, 19, had never played in the Italian top flight before this campaign but since the start of the season, the 19-year-old has made five appearances across various competitions, including four in Serie A. Excelling beyond belief, the teenager has caught the attention of numerous clubs and was particularly impressive in Fiorentina’s most recent match against Cagliari.

Reports from Italian sports media outlet Football News 24, suggests that Kayode’s exponential growth has attracted several clubs outside Italy, with Arsenal at the forefront of the pursuit. Over the weekend for instance, Kayode smartly executed a crucial goalline clearance against Cagliari 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.

Arsenal reportedly, dispatched a scout to closely observe the young defender during the entire 90 minutes of the match. Currently contracted with Fiorentina until 2025, with an option for an additional year, Kayode commands a meagre annual salary of €30,000, which will make him vulnerable to any new offers.

Fiorentina, however, are eager to secure his services for the long term, so are certain to offer him 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, Kayode remained an unused substitute in both fixtures.

A galloping right fullback who offers both defensive and offensive qualities, Kayode have to undergo a switch with Fifa if he opts to play for Nigeria at senior level. For now, he remains eligible to play for Nigeria’s Super Eagles but he is also on the radar of Italian national team head coach Luciano Spalletti.