Inter Milan have decided not to prioritise a move for Brentford defender Michael Kayode as they consider how to replace Denzel Dumfries on the right side of their team.
The Italy international, who is of Nigerian origin and was born in 2004, was recently offered to the Nerazzurri as a potential option for the demanding wing-back role. However, despite his youth, physical presence and room for development, Inter’s hierarchy have reservations about his attacking contribution.
According to Tuttosport, Kayode’s transfer would cost about €40m. That valuation reflects the player’s potential and his ability to operate effectively on the flank, qualities that broadly fit the sporting project at Inter.
The main concern for the Milan club is whether he can provide enough threat in the final third. Kayode made 44 appearances in all competitions during the season that has just ended, but recorded only one goal and two assists.
Those figures are considered insufficient for a player expected to play such an important offensive role from the right. As a result, Kayode’s profile is not currently among Inter’s priorities as they assess the succession to Dumfries.
Inter are instead focusing on a player capable of making a more decisive impact in the final 30 metres of the pitch. The club’s search remains centred on finding a wing-back who can contribute consistently in attack as well as provide quality and energy on the flank.
Kayode’s age and potential progression remain attractive elements for Inter, while his physical qualities are also viewed positively. Nevertheless, the club’s assessment of his recent attacking output has prevented him from moving to the front of the list.
The Italian defender therefore appears unlikely to become Dumfries’ successor at Inter, with the Nerazzurri favouring a candidate whose numbers and influence in advanced areas more closely match the demands of the position.
