Newcastle United ‘eye’ Italian wonderkid to replace high-profile star with summer exit on the cards

Newcastle United have entered the race to sign Fiorentina starlet Michael Kayode, according to reports from Nufc Blog.

The 20-year-old right-back is believed to be highly admired by scouts around Europe after an impressive breakout season which saw him make 37 appearances across all competitions, including six in the Europa Conference League.

Kayode is an Italian defender of Nigerian descent, he has represented the Azzurri at U18, U19 and U21 level. He is renowned for his excellent pace, crossing and strong defensive skills. This was highlighted last season for Fiorentina during a memorable campaign which saw the Purples finish eighth in the league, one point short of the Europa League places, whilst also reaching the semi-final of the Coppa Italia and the Supercoppa Italiana.

Kayode was a regular starter throughout the campaign and was also earmarked for his impressive displays in Europe as Fiorentina reached a second consecutive Europa Conference League final before falling short against Olympiakos. Newcastle are renowned for their ability to develop young players as they have proven in the full back areas in the past with both Lewis Hall and Tino Livramento. Kayode could be the latest to follow in their footsteps and is hopeful of becoming a full Italian international in years to come.

Talk of Kayode’s potential arrival comes as a result of speculation surrounding Kieran Trippier, who is the subject of immense interest from Saudi Arabia, according to reports from the Northern Echo. Trippier has been an instrumental player in Newcastle’s success since his arrival from Atletico Madrid in January 2022. Overall, he has made 92 appearances in Black and White whilst recording four goals and 20 assists in all competitions, thus making him one of the most productive players in his position.

Trippier was a vital part of the Newcastle team that reached the Champions League group stage for the first time in 20 years under Eddie Howe and he has often acted as the on the field captain in the absence of Jamaal Lascelles. However, at 33-years of age, Trippier is approaching the twilight years of his career and in recent months his form for both England and Newcastle has come under the microscope after a seventh place finish in the Premier League last term.