Michael Kayode Close to Joining Brentford from Fiorentina

Nigeria-eligible defender Michael Kayode is nearing a move to Premier League side Brentford from Fiorentina, with negotiations now in their final stages. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed the development, revealing that the deal is close after Kayode gave his green light for the transfer.

“Brentford are closing in on Michael Kayode deal with Fiorentina. Negotiations at final stages after player’s green light, key details being clarified in club to club talks,” Romano wrote on X.

The 20-year-old full-back’s omission from Fiorentina’s squad for their recent Serie A match against Torino has added to the speculation surrounding his potential move.

Reports suggest that Brentford are looking to secure Kayode on a paid loan deal, with an option to make the move permanent at the end of the season. Fiorentina, however, are keen on including a buy-back clause in the deal.

Read Also: Whyte Criticizes Anthony Joshua for Avoiding Immediate Rematch with Dubois

Kayode’s move comes after a lack of playing time under Fiorentina’s new coach Raffaele Palladino, who has preferred Dodo in the right-back position. Despite this, Kayode enjoyed a solid 2023 season, making 26 Serie A appearances.

Born in Borgomanero, Italy, Kayode started his youth career at Juventus before moving to Serie D club Gozzano in 2020, where his performances helped the club secure promotion. He joined Fiorentina in 2021 and quickly made an impact with their youth team, winning the Coppa Italia Primavera and the Supercoppa Italiana Primavera.

Though Kayode has represented Italy at U-18, U-19, and U-21 levels, he remains eligible to play for Nigeria at the senior level, making his potential international switch a point of interest. The young defender had previously been on Liverpool’s radar, but Brentford has emerged as the frontrunner for his signature.