Nigeria handed major Super Eagles boost on €35 million star wanted by Arsenal, PSG, Chelsea

Italy manager Gennaro Gattuso has made a surprising decision to leave out Michael Kayode from his latest squad for the crucial World Cup playoff against Northern Ireland, Afrik-Foot reports.

Kayode has been one of the most consistent young defenders in the Premier League this season, so many expected him to earn a first senior call-up. Instead, Gattuso chose to rely on Cagliari’s 21-year-old right back Marco Palestra, leaving the Brentford full-back out completely.

The decision has raised eyebrows. Even more surprising, Kayode was not included in Italy’s Under-21 squad either, despite his strong performances week after week.

Gattuso explained that he wanted a ‘core of trusted and experienced players’ for such an important match. With Italy under pressure after missing the last two World Cups, the manager appears unwilling to take risks on younger, uncapped players.

However, this cautious approach could benefit Nigeria. Because Kayode has not yet played a senior match for Italy, he is still eligible to represent the Super Eagles.

Nigeria’s head coach Eric Chelle is said to be watching the situation closely. The omission is seen as a big opportunity to convince the defender to switch allegiance.

There have already been signs of interest. Kayode has spoken about being proud of his Nigerian roots, and fans have noticed his growing connection with the Super Eagles online. If Italy continue to overlook him, Nigeria may have a real chance to act.

Kayode: Transfer interest, battle with Super Eagles star Bassey

Kayode’s rise at Brentford FC has been impressive. After joining from ACF Fiorentina on loan in January 2025, he quickly became a key player. The club later signed him permanently, and he has not looked back since.

This season, he has started almost every league match, showing pace, strength, and strong defending. He recently scored his first Premier League goal in a 2-2 draw against Wolverhampton Wanderers. His performances have pushed his market value up to around €35 million, and Brentford are believed to want much more if they decide to sell.

That rise puts him in a strong position compared to Calvin Bassey, who is currently Nigeria’s most valuable defenders. If Kayode switches allegiance and commits to the Super Eagles, he could overtake Bassey and become Nigeria’s top defensive asset.

Top clubs are already circling. Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea are both interested, while Manchester City and Juventus FC are also monitoring him closely. Other clubs like Arsenal FC and Tottenham Hotspur have been linked as well.

Brentford, however, are in a strong position. Kayode is under contract until 2030, meaning any club that wants him will have to pay a very high fee.