EXCLUSIVE NEWS: reported by Fabrizio Romano, 🚨 JUST IN, Manchester city are now favourites to land serie A wonderkid ahead of Arsenal who have been long time admirer. “Manchester City are now the front-runners to sign a highly-rated Serie A youngster, with Arsenal set to miss out. This player has been the subject of a long-running transfer saga, with both clubs tracking his progress. However, it now seems that City have stolen a march on their rivals, with a deal close to being agreed. The player is widely considered to be one of the brightest young talents in world football. Manchester City Move Into Pole Position to Land Serie A Wonderkid – Arsenal Long-Time Admirers Miss Out”.

Manchester City have reportedly entered the fray alongside Arsenal, AC Milan, and Inter Milan in the pursuit of Fiorentina’s emerging talent, Michael Kayode. According to fiorentina.it (via TEAMTalk), City have joined the list of European giants showing interest in the promising right-back from Italy. The Milan rivals and Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal are also keeping a close watch on Kayode.

Arsenal, in particular, are said to be highly keen on securing a deal for the dynamic young player and are reportedly making significant efforts to make it happen. Kayode has made a strong impression in Serie A this season, establishing himself as a regular starter for Viola. The 19-year-old has showcased his abilities with one goal and three assists in 25 appearances across various competitions, earning praise for his tactical awareness, physical strength, and attacking prowess.

Scouts from Arsenal, Manchester City, and the Milan clubs have all attended recent matches to observe Kayode’s performances firsthand. With four years remaining on his contract, Fiorentina is expected to demand a fee of at least £15 million for his services.

Vincenzo Italiano, the manager of Fiorentina, has spoken highly of Kayode’s qualities earlier this season, emphasizing the youngster’s courage and mental fortitude, which are crucial attributes for a player of his age.

Arsenal’s interest in Kayode comes despite having established defenders like Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu in their squad. However, manager Mikel Arteta may be looking to inject youthful energy into his team for long-term planning.

A similar motive might be driving Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola’s interest in Kayode. While City recently extended Kyle Walker’s contract for two more years, the 33-year-old right-back is approaching the latter stages of his career, prompting the club to consider younger alternatives for the future.