‘One To Watch ‘- Report Claims Newcastle Have Identified Arsenal Transfer Target As Kieran Trippier’s Successor

Newcastle could make a move for Fiorentina right-back Michael Kayode before the transfer window closes, according to NUFCBlog.co.uk.

The website reports that the Italian Under 21 international may be “one to watch” this summer as he is well-liked by the Magpies’ recruitment team.

Manager Eddie Howe does already have FOUR right-backs at his disposal, including Tino Livramento, Kieran Trippier, Emil Krafth and Harrison Ashby but three of those have been tipped to leave St James’ Park.

Trippier is currently first choice but he has less than a year left on his contract and he could be sold in the coming weeks if the club receive a good enough offer.

Krafth is also nearing the end of his current deal but he is more likely to move on a free transfer next year. Ashby, meanwhile, is set to head out on loan.

Kayode has been a target for another Premier League club

Newcastle are not the only team that have kept close tabs on the Fiorentina defender. There have been several reports in the Italian media over the last year that have claimed Arsenal have sent scouts to watch him in action.

The Gunners are not exactly short of options on the right-hand side of defence, though, so the Magpies shouldn’t be too concerned about them entering the race for Kayode.

How much will Newcastle have to pay?

Fiorentina are said to be determined to keep hold of one of their most promising young players, and the Viola have reportedly slapped a €30m (£25m) price tag on the fullback.

That is a sizeable fee for someone who may not be a regular starter but, if Kayode were to be signed, the Magpies would have two very promising players (along with Livramento) competing for the same position.

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David Tully

David Tully

David has worked as a football reporter for the last fifteen years. Having started as an intern at Snack Media, he then went on to become a freelancer, working on various different sites. At the start of 2023, he took up his current role as content writer for National World's Football News Network.