Premier League Defender Michael Kayode Poised for International Switch to Nigeria
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle is reportedly on the verge of securing a significant defensive reinforcement, with Brentford FC star Michael Kayode considering a switch from Italy to Nigeria. This development comes ahead of Nigeria's high-profile international friendlies scheduled for June against Portugal and Poland.
World Cup Omission Opens Door for Nigeria
The 21-year-old defender, who has represented Italy at U18, U19, and U21 levels, was notably overlooked by Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso for the 2026 FIFA World Cup squad. This omission followed Italy's defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina in the final on March 31, creating a clear opportunity for Nigeria to pursue the talented player.
Nigeria failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup despite the increased number of participating teams from the African continent, making the potential addition of Kayode even more crucial for squad rebuilding. Chelle, who will lead the three-time AFCON champions in the preliminary round of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations in September, views foreign-born players as essential to enhancing team quality.
NFF Facilitates Crucial Meeting with Kayode
The Nigeria Football Federation has initiated plans to hold direct talks with the Brentford defender regarding a potential international switch. According to reports from ViolaNews, NFF officials are keen to facilitate a one-on-one meeting between Chelle and Kayode before the international break in June.
"The former Fiorentina player has previously expressed his desire to play for Italy," noted sources close to the situation. "However, his continued absence from Gattuso's senior team plans has created this opportunity for Nigeria to make their move."
Kayode's Impressive Credentials and Current Form
Michael Kayode brings substantial experience and proven quality to the table:
- Scored the winning goal for Italy in the 2023 UEFA U19 European Championship final
- Has maintained a steady rise in his professional career since that triumph
- Played 30 matches for Brentford this season, scoring one goal with six yellow cards
- Demonstrated consistent development in the competitive Premier League environment
His potential integration into the Super Eagles squad comes at an opportune time, with veteran defender William Troost-Ekong nearing retirement and Semi Ajayi struggling with recurring injuries.
Journalist Highlights Value of Foreign-Born Players
Nigerian sports journalist Joel Ajayi emphasized the importance of such acquisitions in an exclusive interview. "If you look at some of the outstanding players in the current squad, like Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, and Calvin Bassey, you'll see they are players born outside Africa," Ajayi stated.
He added: "Michael Kayode is a very experienced player and could be the missing link in our defence following the retirement of Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong. His experience with Italy's youth teams would be a valuable asset to the Super Eagles."
Chelle's Broader Recruitment Efforts
This potential acquisition follows earlier reports that Eric Chelle is also pursuing Arsenal star Ethan Nwaneri to represent Nigeria at the international level. The former Mali coach remains optimistic about the attacking midfielder joining the three-time AFCON champions, despite Nwaneri having represented England at U-17 level.
The dual recruitment efforts underscore Chelle's strategy of strengthening the Super Eagles through both domestic talent and qualified foreign-born players as Nigeria looks to rebuild after their World Cup qualification disappointment.
