Manchester United interested in Michael Kayode

Manchester United have intensified their interest in Brentford’s 21-year-old defender Michael Kayode, TEAMtalk understands, as the club braces for the possible departure of Diogo Dalot. Kayode, who initially joined Brentford on loan from Fiorentina last season before the move was made permanent, has caught the eye with dynamic Premier League performances that have helped propel the Bees into European contention.

Sources indicate United have identified the Nigerian-born full-back as a prime candidate to reinforce the right side of defence, but prising him away from west London will be costly. Brentford, under no pressure to sell, have slapped a valuation exceeding £50 million on a player contracted until 2030.

The competition is fierce. Manchester City, Newcastle United, Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich are all tracking Kayode’s progress, drawn to a profile that blends blistering pace, aerial dominance and the ability to whip in threatening crosses. Comfortable building play from the back, the youngster is viewed across Europe as one of the game’s most promising defensive talents.

With the summer window approaching, the onus is on United to decide whether to formalise their pursuit and test Brentford’s resolve.