Nottingham Forest are in advanced negotiations with Ligue 1 club Rennes over the signing of French striker Arnaud Kalimuendo as Nuno Espírito Santo looks to strengthen his attacking options ahead of a busy 2025-26 campaign.
Kalimuendo, 23, enjoyed a prolific season in France last term, scoring 18 goals in all competitions as Rennes finished 12th in the league. His performances have drawn interest from several clubs, but Forest are believed to be leading the race, with discussions now at an advanced stage.
The move comes as Forest prepare for their return to European competition. The East Midlands side qualified for the Europa League after Crystal Palace were moved into the Europa Conference League due to UEFA’s competition reallocation. The extra fixtures have prompted Espírito Santo to push for more depth in his squad, particularly in the forward line.
Forest have already made moves in the transfer market, securing the £10m signing of Brazilian striker Igor Jesus from Botafogo. The 23-year-old is expected to provide competition and support for New Zealand international Chris Wood, who was instrumental last season with 20 goals in all competitions. Adding Kalimuendo would further bolster their firepower and give the manager greater tactical flexibility.
Kalimuendo football career
Kalimuendo’s career began at Paris St-Germain, where he rose through the youth ranks before making his senior debut in 2020. Although he found first-team opportunities limited at the Parc des Princes, loan spells at Lens showcased his talent and ability to score consistently in Ligue 1. In 2022, Rennes secured his permanent transfer, and he has since scored 42 goals in 105 appearances for the club.
His strong record in France has been matched by success at international level. Kalimuendo represented France at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he helped the host nation to a silver medal. Known for his pace, movement, and clinical finishing, he offers a profile that would complement Forest’s existing options in attack.
Negotiations between Forest and Rennes are reported to be progressing well, with the deal expected to include a significant transfer fee. While no agreement has been finalised, there is optimism at the City Ground that Kalimuendo could be their next major signing of the summer.
For Forest, the signing would not only add quality but also youth to a squad aiming to compete on multiple fronts. The club’s hierarchy have been keen to blend experienced players with emerging talent, and Kalimuendo’s age and proven track record fit that strategy perfectly.
Espírito Santo has spoken about the need to adapt to the demands of European football, highlighting the importance of squad rotation. “We know what the Europa League requires – it’s about depth, competition for places, and keeping the team fresh. The more options we have, the better our chances,” he said recently.
For Rennes, losing their top scorer would be a blow, but the French side may see this as an opportunity to reinvest in their squad. They endured an inconsistent campaign last season, finishing in the lower half of Ligue 1, and could use the funds from a potential Kalimuendo sale to rebuild.
If the deal goes through, Kalimuendo will join a Forest side eager to make an impact both domestically and in Europe. Supporters will hope his arrival can add another dimension to their attack, as the club looks to build on recent progress and establish itself firmly in the Premier League’s top half.
With the new season fast approaching, Forest’s transfer business is showing clear intent. The potential signing of Kalimuendo would underline their ambition – and send a message to rivals that they are ready for the challenges ahead.
