Nigeria Head Coach Eric Chelle Eyes Brentford’s Kayode Ahead of 2027 AFCON

The Nigeria Football Federation is exploring the possibility of adding Michael Kayode to the Super Eagles squad, SportsBoom can exclusively report.

Kayode, a defender currently with Brentford, was born in Italy to Nigerian parents, making him eligible to represent either nation at senior level. 

The 21-year-old has previously featured for Italy across youth categories, including the U18, U19 and U21 sides.

Although Kayode had earlier expressed a desire to play for the Azzurri, his absence from senior selections under Italy head coach Gennaro Gattuso has potentially reopened the door for Nigeria.

AFCON 2027 Reinforcement Target

Sources within the NFF have told SportsBoom that Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle is keen on the player and is working to arrange a meeting with his representatives. 

Chelle is said to value Kayode’s physical presence, energy and long throw-in ability, viewing him as a strong addition ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

Encouraging Nigeria’s pursuit is the fact that Kayode has yet to make a senior competitive appearance for Italy, meaning a nationality switch would be straightforward under FIFA regulations.

Since taking charge, Chelle has already moved to secure several dual-nationality players, including Ryan Alebiosu of Blackburn Rovers and Emmanuel Fernandez of Rangers FC. Meanwhile, Arthur Okonkwo of Wrexham AFC is close to completing his international switch.

Kayode began his career in the youth system at Juventus, where he spent seven years before moving to AC Gozzano in Serie D. There, he made 34 appearances and scored twice, helping the club secure promotion to Serie C.

He later joined ACF Fiorentina, breaking into the first team in August 2023. 

His performances attracted interest from Brentford, who signed him on loan in January 2025 before making the move permanent in May. 

Kayode is now contracted with the Premier League side until June 2030.