Spurs emerge as favourites to sign Nigeria-eligible fullback Michael Kayode from Fiorentina

ENGLISH Premier League giants Tottenham Hotspurs have emerged as the favourites to sign Nigeria-eligible right fullback Michael Kayode over the coming weeks as the race to sign the Fiorentina teenager heats up now that the transfer window is open.

Kayode, 19, who has a contract with Fiorentina until 2028, has been valued at €40m in the light of his recent scintillating performances in Serie A. An Italian-born Nigerian, he was one of the brightest prospects in Serie A last season, making 26 appearances during the campaign, finding the back of the net three times.

According to his club's online portal Corriere Fiorentino, Spurs are interested in signing the defender as a potential replacement for Emerson Royal. Spurs fear that Royal is likely to leave this summer and has been linked with AC Milan, the Saudi Pro League and Brazilian side Flamengo and the club will have to look for a replacement for him.

Kayode the promising defender made his Serie A debut against Genoa last August and went on to feature 37 times across all competitions for Fiorentina in his first full season with the club. He has previously been linked with Arsenal but nothing came of that and it remains to be seen how strong Tottenham's interest is, particularly with his recent valuation.