Chelsea tracking starlet Michael Kayode

Chelsea have deployed their head scout in Italy for more than six months to monitor Fiorentina right-back Michael Kayode's development, and the Blues are now set to make a transfer bid for the 20-year-old this summer. Kayode, who has been on the books at Fiorentina since 2021, is an extremely quick full-back and is valued by his club at around 20 million euros.

Kayode finally made the breakthrough into the Viola's first-team side last season, and appeared 26 times in Serie A, scoring one goal. A further 11 appearances in all competitions followed. The hot prospect for the future already has international appearances for Italy's under-18, under-19 and under-21 sides, and a possible move to Chelsea will likely boost his chances of full international recognition.

Kayode can play not only as a defender, but also as a winger, as witnessed for Italy's youth sides. He adds an interesting mix of attacking prowess to his solid defensive coverage. Last season an injury to Dodo gave Kayode ample opportunity to impress, and now Fiorentina realise they have an exceptional talent on their hands but will do well to keep hold of the player this summer.