Arteta in dreamland as Arsenal submit enquiry for perfect summer signing

Cameron Smith

• 3 Mar 2026 12:57 GMT
• 4 min read

News

Arsenal have reportedly submitted an initial enquiry regarding a summer move for Brentford star Michael Kayode after identifying the defender as a priority target for 2026.

Mikel Arteta’s side are understood to be in the market for a new right-back amid rumours that Benjamin White could be sold ahead of the 2026-27 campaign and they have now earmarked Kayode as a viable option for the position amid his immense form so far this season.

Current ETV

Michael Kayode

D (R)

Brentford

Michael Kayode

D (R)

Brentford

€36.7M

ETV Range

€33.1M - €40.4M

View full profile

The Italy defender has played a pivotal role in Brentford’s eye-catching 2025-26 campaign and he has attracted the attention of scouts across European football, as per Fichajes.

Liverpool, Manchester City and Real Madrid are all interested in signing the 21-year-old, although Arsenal appear to be among the frontrunners for his signature as they look to purchase a new right-back this summer.

FootballTransfers understands that Newcastle United star Valentino Livramento is also under consideration by the Gunners hierarchy, who are once again keen to bolster the defensive options available to Arteta.

Kayode will still have four years remaining on his current contract at Brentford this summer, but Keith Andrews’ side will reportedly consider a sale if Arsenal are willing to submit a suitable offer that matches their valuation of the Italian.

Why Michael Kayode is the perfect signing for Mikel Arteta

Arsenal’s reported interest in Kayode will come as fantastic news for Gunners boss Arteta, who has prioritised set pieces in the club’s bid to win a first Premier League title since 2003-04.

Brentford are also dangerous from dead-ball situations, although their main threat comes via Kayode’s superb long throw-in.

Arsenal have their own throw-in specialist in Declan Rice, but the England star doesn’t boast the same effectiveness as Kayode, who is widely considered to be the best long throw-in taker in world football.

His potential arrival at the Emirates Stadium would therefore undoubtedly be welcomed by Arteta, who has maximised Arsenal’s set-piece proficiency this season, alongside renowned coach Nicolas Jover.

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