Over the summer, we revealed Newcastle United’s interest Fiorentina’s Michael Kayode; a young Italian right-back considered a potential long-term replacement for Kieran Trippier.
Nothing came of it and Trippier stayed put, but with our former captain likely to depart in 2025 and additional competition required for Tino Livramento when the time comes, we’ll be keeping an eye on available right-backs.
This brings us to the latest claims coming out of Italy, where an update has arrived on Kayode’s availability.
Toon target has asking price slashed
Florence-based outlet FirenzeViola have revealed that Newcastle, Tottenham and Aston Villa had offers rejected in the summer for Kayode, stating that Fiorentina were holding out for €30m at the time.
Fast forward a few months, however, the 20-year-old has grown frustrated by his limited game time this season and could be on the move in January for a cut-price fee.
Next month may come too soon for Newcastle, who could be prioritising a right-winger or centre-back instead should funds allow it, but they may sense an opportunity to strike a bargain, with Fiorentina reportedly slashing their asking price to €15m.
A ‘half-price’ deal may well appeal if we did indeed make a bid over the summer, especially if we found a buyer for Trippier next month before his contract expires at the end of the season.
Right-back needed soon?
In Tino Livramento we are in safe hands, but it may not be long until we’re requiring further depth at right-back.
Kieran Trippier’s future is uncertain, with reports suggesting this will be his last season at the club. He’s stepped in superbly over the last two games, but with huge wages, the loss of captaincy to Bruno and his contract coming to an end next year, 2025 looks like the year he departs.
It also remains to be seen if we’ll keep Emil Krafth. The Swede is dependable when fit, but he’s had his fair share of injury issues – he’s currently out with a collarbone issue – and will leave on a free in June if he doesn’t sign a new deal over the coming months.
Personally, I think Krafth signs a new deal and could soon act as cover for Livramento, but you can see why the club are weighing up their options at right-back.
