Tottenham told to pay £17 million for Michael Kayode

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly in pole position to secure a deal for highly-rated Fiorentina defender Michael Kayode, according to Corriere dello Sport (page 22).

The 20-year-old has caught the eye of several Premier League clubs, including Newcastle United and Aston Villa, but Spurs have made the most significant progress.

Due to their finances, Fiorentina are under pressure to sell Kayode and have slashed their asking price to £17 million to tempt suitors.

The Serie A side reduced their initial valuation of around £25 million, making the young defender an attractive proposition for Tottenham.

Kayode primarily plays at right-back but can provide cover at left-back. He helped Fiorentina keep six clean sheets in 26 Serie A appearances last term, winning 60% of his duels. He also contributed a goal and an assist.

The Italian is superb defensively and a constant outlet in attack. He is an ideal fit for Tottenham. Spurs have been offloading senior players for younger options, and the Fiorentina man fits the in-demand profile.

Spurs can finalise a deal quickly and potentially steal a march on their rivals, with the Italian club currently on a pre-season tour of England.

Spurs must pip rivals to Kayode’s signature

Right-back may not be a pressing need for Tottenham, but Spurs must do everything to snap up Kayode now.

With Emerson Royal potentially leaving for AC Milan, the North Londoners must sign a replacement for the Brazilian. The Fiorentina star can play back-up to first-choice right-back Pedro Porro and cover for Destiny Udogie at left-back.

If Tottenham can secure Kayode’s signature, it would be wise business. The young defender has the potential to develop into a crucial player for the club in the coming years.

Tottenham recently added key players from the Italian top flight, like Rodrigo Bentancur, Guglielmo Vicario and Radu Dragusin. They might return to Serie A for another top player.