Arsenal miss out on wonderkid target to Brentford

Carlo Garganese

Updated: 19 Jan 2025 13:32 GMT
2 min read

Michael Kayode, Fiorentina, 2023-24 — © IMAGO

Brentford are closing in on the January signing of Arsenal-target Michael Kayode.

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That is according to Nicolo Schira, who reports on Sunday that Brentford are in advanced talks for the Italian right back.

Fiorentina and Brentford are discussing the formula of the deal but a transfer is expected to be done.

Kayode has been destined to leave Fiorentina this month, having played second fiddle to Dodo at right back this season.

The 20-year-old is admired by Arsenal, while FootballTransfers understands that Newcastle had a €25 million bid rejected by Fiorentina for the player last summer.

Brighton were also interested in signing Kayode this month but it seems they are set to miss out on him to Brentford.

Kayode is considered one of the biggest young talents in Europe of his age grioup.

The Fiorentina right-back enjoyed a breakout season last term and firmly put his name on the map. Kayode was a regular fixture in La Viola's side and also made six appearances in their run to the Conference League final.

The 20-year-old contributed with four assists and a goal in 2023/24 and impressed with his overall play. This is also reflected in data provided by SciSports. According to the analytics firm, Kayode was one of the world's most improved players last term and the teenager leads the way in terms of potential for right-backs under the age of 20.

This season, he has found himself fall behind Dodo in the Fiorentina pecking order. However, he remains a big prospect.

Arsenal were heavily reported to be preparing a bid in 2024 but their interest cooled in recent months.

Arsenal interest in Kayode

Arsenal were widely reported to have sent scouts to Florence to watch Kayode play in the 3-0 win over Cagliari last season, a game in which he grabbed an assist.

Kayode is a right back or right wing-back who is comfortable playing anywhere down the right hand side, including as a right winger.

The teenager burst onto the scene during Italy Under-19s European Championship victory in the summer of 2023.

He scored the winner in the final with a header against Portugal to win the trophy for Italy. He has now been moved up to the Italy Under-21 team.

Kayode's contract in Florence expires in June 2028.