“Eric Chelle is keen on the player and is working to arrange a meeting with his representatives,” SportsBoom added.

“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.”

Kayode’s international future had previously appeared settled, with the defender expressing a desire to represent Italy. However, his continued absence from senior call-ups under newly departed Italy head coach Gennaro Gattuso has revived Nigeria’s hopes of securing his services.

The right-back’s rise has been shaped by a steady progression through Italian football. After spending seven years in the academy of Juventus, he moved to lower-tier side AC Gozzano to gain regular playing time, making 34 appearances and scoring twice as the club earned promotion.

Kayode joined Brentford on loan in January 2025 before completing a permanent deal in May, tying him to the Premier League club until June 2030.

Since taking charge of the Super Eagles, Chelle has prioritised recruiting dual-nationality players to strengthen the squad, with moves already underway for talents such as Ryan Alebiosu and Emmanuel Fernandez with Arthur Okonkwo reportedly going on with his allegiance switch.