Newcastle United and Bayer Leverkusen are preparing to launch significant bids for Rennes forward Arnaud Kalimuendo, according to reports from France.
The Premier League and Bundesliga sides have both expressed strong interest in acquiring the services of the 23-year-old striker, who has impressed this season with his consistent performances in Ligue 1.
Born in France, Kalimuendo is of Congolese descent and has long been seen as one of the brightest attacking prospects to emerge from Paris Saint-Germain’s academy.
Since making a permanent move to Rennes in the summer of 2022, he has developed into a clinical frontman, catching the attention of top European clubs.
In the just-ended Ligue 1 season, Kalimuendo scored 17 goals and provided four assists in 33 appearances, 31 of which were starts.
His scoring ability and positional intelligence have made him a valuable asset for Rennes and a major attraction in the transfer market.
While Arsenal, Juventus, and Eintracht Frankfurt had previously been linked to the forward, L’Équipe now reports that Newcastle and newly crowned Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen are intensifying their pursuit.
Both clubs have initiated contact regarding a potential deal, although Rennes are yet to receive an official offer.
Newcastle, in particular, are reportedly prepared to make a substantial financial commitment to secure Kalimuendo’s signature, though the specific figures remain undisclosed.
