Liverpool have reportedly placed Brentford defender Michael Kayode at the top of their right-back watchlist ahead of a potential move in 2027.
The 22-year-old has attracted interest from several leading clubs following his rapid development in west London, with Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle United and Juventus also said to be monitoring him.
However, Liverpool are believed to be showing particularly strong interest as they assess whether another specialist right-back is required.
No offer has been submitted and there have been no direct negotiations with Brentford, meaning the potential transfer remains at an early monitoring stage.
Kayode emerges as leading Liverpool target
Liverpool’s interest comes amid continuing uncertainty on the right side of their defence.
Conor Bradley has remained sidelined, while midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai has been required to cover at right-back during the early stages of the campaign. Jeremie Frimpong remains another option, but the Reds appear to be considering additional competition in the position.
Kayode would provide Liverpool with an athletic and physically powerful defender capable of contributing at both ends of the pitch.
The Italy international possesses the pace and stamina required to make repeated overlapping runs, while his strength in defensive duels has helped him adjust to the physical demands of the Premier League.
He also offers a distinctive attacking weapon through his long throw, which has caused problems for several opponents since his arrival from Fiorentina.
Those qualities have reportedly put Kayode at the head of Liverpool’s shortlist, although the cost of completing a deal would be considerable.
Brentford protected by Kayode contract
Reports suggest Brentford could demand between €60million and €65m, equivalent to approximately £52m–£56m, before considering serious negotiations.
That figure is a reported valuation rather than a confirmed asking price, but the Bees are under no pressure to sell.
Kayode signed a new contract in July that runs until the summer of 2032, with Brentford retaining an option to extend it by another year.
He had already made 56 appearances for the club by the time that agreement was announced, having initially arrived on loan from Fiorentina in January 2025 before completing a permanent move.
Kayode missed only one Premier League match during the 2025/26 season and was nominated for the division’s Young Player of the Season award.
His long-term contract and importance to Brentford mean Liverpool would likely need to present an exceptional offer to tempt the London club into selling.
A January departure is considered particularly unlikely, with any serious pursuit more likely to take place ahead of the 2027/28 campaign.
Kevin Schade linked with double raid
The same speculation has also linked Liverpool with Kayode’s Brentford team-mate Kevin Schade, who is reportedly valued at approximately £60m.
That has prompted suggestions of an ambitious £115m double deal, although there is currently no indication that Liverpool have opened talks for either player.
Kayode appears to be the more prominent target, with the Reds’ need for greater depth at right-back making the Italian a logical option.
Liverpool may face significant competition for his signature, but Brentford’s negotiating position represents the biggest obstacle to any future agreement.
