Premier League club Brentford are closing in on the loan signing of highly-rated Fiorentina defender Michael Kayode. The 20-year-old Italy Under-21 international is due in west London on Wednesday for a medical ahead of completing the temporary switch.
Brentford have negotiated an option to make the move permanent for a fee of £13.5 million in the summer transfer window. Kayode’s arrival is expected to provide much-needed reinforcement to Thomas Frank’s injury-hit squad.
Brentford Address Defensive Crisis
The Bees have been dealt a major blow with the news that Scotland right-back Aaron Hickey is set to be sidelined until April due to a hamstring injury. Kayode’s signing will offer cover and competition in the full-back positions.
A Rising Star in Italy
Kayode has emerged as one of Serie A’s most promising young defenders since breaking into the Fiorentina first team last season. His impressive performances have previously attracted interest from Premier League giants Liverpool and Tottenham.
Michael is a very talented player with a bright future ahead of him. We’re excited to bring him to Brentford and believe he can make an immediate impact.
– Brentford Director of Football, Phil Giles
Potential Roerslev Exit
Kayode’s signing could pave the way for Mads Roerslev to secure a move away from Brentford. The 25-year-old Denmark international has been the subject of loan interest from Bundesliga side Wolfsburg.
- 121 league appearances for Brentford since joining in 2019
- 50 substitute appearances, highlighting squad role
Roerslev initially joined Brentford’s B team setup in August 2019 on a free transfer. He has gone on to amass over 120 appearances for the club, although half of those have come from the substitutes bench.
Hands Off Wissa
While incomings are the priority, Brentford have moved to shut down any speculation over the future of forward Yoane Wissa. The DR Congo international was the subject of a £22 million bid from Nottingham Forest on Tuesday.
Yoane is a key part of our plans moving forward. We have no intention of selling him – that bid was rejected immediately.
– Brentford Head Coach, Thomas Frank
With the January transfer deadline fast approaching, Brentford are working hard to get the Kayode deal over the line. Strengthening the defense has been identified as the top priority to aid the club’s push for a top half Premier League finish.
