‘It’s the right time to make Premier League move’ – French-Congolese Arnaud Kalimuendo on Forest transfer

Nottingham Forest’s new striker Arnaud Kalimuendo believes his transfer to the Premier League has come at the perfect moment in his career, describing the move as a fresh challenge at the right time.

Kalimuendo, who has DR Congolese heritage, completed his switch from French side Rennes this week, signing a long-term contract that runs until 2030.

The 23-year-old arrives with experience in Ligue 1 and is eager to make his mark in England’s top flight.

“I feel a lot of pride; it is an honour. I am very excited to join this club with such history,” he said. “I am ready for this new adventure, and I feel very motivated.”

The striker explained that Nottingham Forest’s interest immediately caught his attention, adding that the conversations with the club’s recruitment team, including sporting director Edu Gaspar, quickly convinced him to commit to the project.

Kalimuendo described the move as timely for his development, saying: “This is the right time: I am reaching a certain level of maturity.

“I’m still relatively young in football terms. I’ve played in Ligue 1 for a long time now, and I’ve had some really good games. I also needed something different, to have a new challenge, and right now Nottingham Forest is ticking all the boxes.”

The French-DR Congolese forward is relishing the prospect of competing in one of the most demanding leagues in world football.

“Now it’s up to me to be well prepared, and above all to settle in as quickly as possible, because I know we are talking about one of the best leagues in the world so I will have to raise my level accordingly,” he added.

Kalimuendo will be expected to add firepower to Forest’s attack as they aim for stability in the Premier League this season.