Senior figures at United pushing for £60m dynamic Italian monster, City standing in their way – report

Recruiting a midfielder and a winger are high on Manchester United’s agenda once the transfer window opens, but they could do with more quality at right back.

Diogo Dalot is the incumbent in that position, and has been for some time now. While his work rate and availability cannot be questioned, the Portugal international certainly lacks the requisite quality.

He has a mistake in him almost every game, either with his defending or with his decision-making.

Multiple teams are ready to offer a fair price to take him off United’s hands, and it’s time for INEOS to move forward.

Michael Kayode to come in and replace Dalot

And the Red Devils have identified the perfect replacement from within the Premier League — Michael Kayode of Brentford.

Only 21, the Italian has been a revelation this season, impressing with his dynamism, physicality and not to mention, his mean long throws which the Bees have utilised to perfection.

Naturally, the former Fiorentina ace’s performances have alerted plenty of other big sides, with Teamtalk revealing Manchester City are among his serious admirers.

Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur, and Newcastle are also sniffing about, while European giants like Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Juventus, and Inter Milan are all keeping tabs.

City are serious admirers

Brentford, who only signed the Italy U21 international in January 2025 for a mere £15 million, now value him at more than £60 million.

Michael Kayode has a contract at the Gtech Community Stadium until 2030, so the London side are in no hurry to sell unless their valuation is met.

United have been scouting the right-back for sometime now, with senior figures pushing for his signature.

“Brentford star Michael Kayode is becoming one of Europe’s most sought-after young defenders, with Manchester City joined by Manchester United and other elite rivals in the race for his signature.

Michael Kayode fits United’s requirements

“Kayode’s dynamic style, combining pace, physicality, and an exceptional long throw, which has become a potent weapon for Brentford, has drawn widespread admiration.

“His consistent performances in a competitive league have seen his market value soar, with club sources revealing he’s valued in excess of £60 million. There is a real belief at Brentford that he will become world-class.

“Interest in the Italian Under-21 international is intensifying across Europe. Sources state in the Premier League, Man City have been among the earliest and most serious admirers. Man Utd have stepped up scouting efforts, with senior figures keen on bolstering their right-back options.

However, the race isn’t just confined to Manchester, with three other Premier League sides and five European heavyweights also in the mix.”

Interestingly, the Brentford ace’s agent has hinted at a possible move in the summer. The Bees are yet to receive any formal bids. It will be interesting to see if INEOS take the plunge.

Feature image Mike Hewitt via Getty Images

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