'Yes, I heard it too' - Kayode's former coach reacts to Arsenal's rumoured interest in Fiorentina fullback 

Carlo Caramelli, Michael Kayode's coach when the Super Eagles-eligible right-back wore the colours of Gozzano, has reacted to Arsenal's rumoured interest in the Fiorentina rising star. 

It was claimed that the Gunners are scouting the Italy U19 international of Nigerian descent with a view to making a move for his services but Fiorentina want to tie him down to a new contract.

Arsenal also reportedly took note of Kayode's performance at the 2023 U19 Euro, where he scored the winning goal in the final against Portugal.

The talented fullback was drafted into the Fiorentina first team after Brazilian defender Dodo suffered an anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee - an injury that would keep him out of action for most part of the 2023-2024 season.

Including his appearance in Thursday's Europa Conference League fixture against Ferencvárosi TC, he has played in five games for the Viola this term.

Caramelli has not established the accuracy of the reports linking his former pupil with a transfer to Arsenal but confirmed that some unnamed German clubs had been monitoring him in the past.

Reacting to Arsenal's alleged interest in Kayode, Caramelli said to Sportitalia via fiorentinanews:" Yes, I heard it too. In fact I spoke to Ritorni and told him jokingly: "But which Arsenal? Mike must stay at Fiorentina .

"I also know that a year ago some German clubs had 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".

Kayode was poached by Fiorentina in 2021 and his current deal expires in June 2025, with the club holding an option for the 2025-2026 season.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

Photo Credit: Instagram

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