Brentford are closing in on the signing of Italian-born Nigerian defender Michael Kayode from Fiorentina.
As reported by football journalist and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, negotiations are at the final stages between the two clubs.
It has been speculated that the Bees would like to sign Kayode on a paid loan, with an option to make the transfer permanent at the end of the season.
Brentford Close in on Kayode
Posting on his X account, Fabrizio Romano claimed the Fiorentina defender Michael Kayode is on the verge of moving to Brentford this January transfer window, and the deal is at the final stage.
The player reportedly gave the green light for the transfer after being out of favour with the current coach.
“Brentford is closing in on Michael Kayode’s deal with Fiorentina. Negotiations at final stages after player’s green light, key details being clarified in club-to-club talks.”
However, it is reported that the deal will include a buy-back clause. This will allow the Italian side to bring back the player.
Bees beat Premier League opposition
Newcastle United have been monitoring Michael Kayode’s progress. The right-back is viewed as a perfect addition to Eddie Howe’s side.
However, it is now highly likely that a transfer to Newcastle is no longer on the cards.
The player has given Brentford the ‘green light,’ as per Fabrizio Romano.
Brentford-bound Rising Talent
Kayode was one of Fiorentina’s top performers last season, making 26 Serie A appearances.
However, since head coach Raffaele Palladino took over, the 20-year-old has had difficulty getting as much playing time as he would have liked, and Dodo is seen as the best choice for his position.
Kayode was born in Borgomanero, Italy. He started his youth career at Juventus and stayed there until 2018.
The defender played with Serie D side Club Gozzano during the 2020-21 season. He scored two goals and assisted two in 34 matches, before moving to Fiorentina.
He joined Fiorentina in 2021, where he was integrated into the team’s youth sector.
Additionally, Kayode won one Coppa Italia Primavera and one Supercoppa Italiana Primavera with Fiorentina.