Arsenal have sent a scout to Italy to monitor Fiorentina’s 19-year-old defender, Michael Kayode.

The young player has made a notable impression in Serie A, attracting the attention of the north London club’s officials.

Arsenal have dispatched an official to Italy to monitor Fiorentina’s young defender Michael Kayode, as reported by Italian media.

The 19-year-old has been with the Serie A club’s academy for three years before making it in to the first team this season. Kayode has already clocked up five appearances for Fiorentina and even contributed an assist during his team’s 3-0 victory over Cagliari.

Kayode, born in Borgomanero, Italy, has dual citizenship with Nigeria, but the right-back has already represented Italy at the U21 level.

His current contract with Fiorentina runs until 30 June 2025, with an option for a further year. Kayode’s most recent contract extension occurred on 1 August 2022, and he currently earns an annual salary of €30,000.

The north London club’s scout was present at the Stadio Artemio Franchi to witness Kayode play the entire 90-minute match against Cagliari, during which he assisted Alberto Dossena’s goal in the 21st minute.

Arsenal’s officials reportedly came away impressed with the young defender’s performance.

Although Kayode has caught the eye of clubs abroad due to his “exponential growth”, Arsenal are the only club explicitly mentioned in reports as taking active steps to watch the player.

Fiorentina, however, appear to be unruffled by the interest shown in their young prospect. The Serie A side’s ambition is to “lock him down” to a new deal, undoubtedly involving a more lucrative wage package and increasing any release fee.

This scouting move aligns with Arsenal’s well-known strategy of nurturing young talent, under the guidance of manager Mikel Arteta. With Arteta’s penchant for developing youngsters and Kayode’s promising start in Serie A, this could be a beneficial match for both parties.