Two days ago, Firenze Viola stated Arsenal had a scout in attendance to watch Fiorentina’s Michael Kayode in action against Cagliari.
Dodô’s injury setback has let the 19-year-old make his first team debut this season and he’s made five appearances so far for the Serie A side.
Arsenal have the right-back in their sights and have been keeping close tabs on him for a while, according to Sport Mediaset.
It’s claimed the Gunners had their officials watching the defender a few weeks ago, meaning the clash against Cagliari wasn’t the first time they looked at him closely.
Kayode’s contract expires in 2025 with an option for another year and the report states La Viola are trying to extend his deal until 2027. On Wednesday, Corriere dello Sport stated Fiorentina aren’t scared about Mikel Arteta’s side sniffing around their rising star.
Kayode joined Fiorentina in 2021 after spending three years at Gozzano. Mobilieri Ponsacco manager Carlo Caramelli was Antonio Soda’s assistant at Gozzano and trained the Arsenal target during his time there.
Sportitalia interviewed Caramelli and asked him about claims of Arsenal sending the scout to watch his former player.
“Yes, I heard it too. In fact, I heard [scout Andrea] Ritorni and I said to him jokingly: ‘But which Arsenal? Mike must stay at Fiorentina’,” he said.
“I also know that a year ago some German clubs moved. These are all important proofs of esteem, but now Mike must remain focused on Fiorentina and take one step at a time. I really hope that he continues to improve while maintaining its naturalness.”
