Liverpool lead Arsenal in race for £55m Brentford right-back Michael Kayode

Liverpool are leading Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur in the pursuit of Brentford right-back Michael Kayode, according to Caught Offside. The 22-year-old Italy international has been placed at the top of Liverpool's watchlist and could cost between £51 million and £55 million if Brentford sell next summer.

  • Player: Michael Kayode, right-back, Brentford
  • Leading club: Liverpool, ahead of Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur
  • Potential fee: £51 million to £55 million
  • Timeline: A winter exit is unlikely; Brentford could consider a sale in the summer
  • Status: No official bid has been submitted
  • Context: Kayode recently made his Italy debut under Roberto Mancini

Deal details

Liverpool have not made an official bid for Kayode. According to Caught Offside, the Reds are leading the race in monitoring the Italy international ahead of Arsenal and Spurs. Brentford could demand between £51 million and £55 million for the former Fiorentina defender.

A winter exit is unlikely, but Brentford could consider selling the right-back in the summer. Kayode joined Brentford on loan in January 2025 before the Bees triggered the option to buy him in May last year.

Why Liverpool want Kayode — and the numbers behind the chase

Kayode has established himself as one of the best right-backs in the Premier League, making 44 appearances in a fantastic second season at Brentford and seven in the current campaign. His profile — energetic, tireless work rate, duel-winning ability, tackling and recovery pace — fits exactly what Liverpool need.

Jeremie Frimpong has looked defensively vulnerable since his move from Bayer Leverkusen. Conor Bradley has fared decently but it is uncertain how he returns from a serious knee injury. Manager Andoni Iraola has used summer signing Ronald Araujo as a makeshift right-back, but ideally wants a specialist who can make the position his own. Kayode has the credentials to become an undisputed starter.

Arsenal could be Liverpool's main threat next summer. Speculation continues that Ben White could be sold, and Kayode could be seen as a marquee right-back addition for the Gunners. Tottenham are also monitoring the situation. The fee — £51m to £55m — reflects a player who has already adapted to the Premier League and won international recognition.

Talking points

  • Would Liverpool spend up to £55m on a right-back when Frimpong and Bradley are already at the club? That fee suggests Iraola sees Kayode as a starter, not a squad option.
  • Arsenal's interest hinges on Ben White's future. If White stays, the Gunners may not bid, handing Liverpool a clear run at Kayode.
  • Brentford have no reason to sell in January. Their summer valuation of £51m-£55m is a strong position for a player who cost them far less.
  • Kayode's Italy debut under Roberto Mancini adds international pedigree. That usually increases a transfer fee, not decreases it.

What happens next

Liverpool will continue to monitor Kayode. No official bid has been submitted, and a winter exit is unlikely. The decisive window is next summer, when Brentford could consider a sale and Arsenal's pursuit of a right-back may depend on Ben White's situation. The next few months will determine whether Liverpool's lead in the race holds.

Frequently asked questions

Are Liverpool signing Michael Kayode from Brentford?

Not yet. Liverpool are leading the race to sign him, but no official bid has been submitted and a winter exit is unlikely according to Caught Offside.

How much would Michael Kayode cost?

Brentford could demand between £51 million and £55 million for the right-back if they sell in the summer.

Which clubs are interested in Michael Kayode?

Liverpool, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur are all monitoring the Brentford right-back, with Liverpool currently leading the race.

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