Nigeria-eligible right back Michael Kayode being sought after by several Premier League clubs

NIGERIA-eligible right fullback Michael Kayode has become the subject of a tug-of war between several English Premier League clubs with Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur involved in a fierce battle to secure his services before the close of the transfer window.

Kayode, 20, currently plies his trade in Italy with Serie A side Fiorentina, where last season, he featured 26 times, scoring three goals and was considered as the best right-backs in the league. According to  Italian transfer market expert Alfredo Pedullà, Newcastle United and Bournemouth have joined Spurs and Villa in the running for Kayode's signature.

An Italian-born Nigerian, Kayode is eligible to play for Italy and Nigeria, although so far, he is yet to commit his international future to either nation. Fiorentina are said to be open to letting Kayode leave but have said they want to receive the right offer which has been reported to be around €20m plus bonuses.

During the last January transfer window, Kayode was linked with Arsenal but is now being heavily courted by Aston Villa due to the uncertainty regarding the future of Matty Cash. Spurs for their part, have also been credited with an interest in Kayode as they are looking for a replacement for Emerson Royal who has been linked with AC Milan.

Newcastle's interest may be unrelated to reports that Kieran Trippier wants a departure this summer for the Saudi Pro-League with a potential exit leaving the club with the onus to find another right back. Born in Borgonamero, Italy, to Nigerian parents, Kayode has represented Italy at the U-18 and U-19 levels.

A galloping right fullback who offers both defensive and offensive qualities, Kayode will 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.