Newcastle United need a striker and the club from North East England might have identified one as they gear up for a return to the UEFA Champions League.
According to L’Equipe, Eddie Howe’s side have turned their attention to Stade Rennais striker Arnaud Kalimuendo, who has been on tear in Ligue 1.
The 23-year-old French striker, who was signed by Rennais in 2022 from PSG has rocketed to the top of Eddie Howe’s wishlist following a shining Ligue 1 campaign, where he netted 17 goals and chipped in with 3 assists across 33 appearances.
The metrics don’t lie either. According to FBref, Kalimuendo has outperformed his expected goals (xG 14.9), which shows his efficiency in front of goal.
Sources close to the situation confirm that Newcastle and Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen have made initial approaches for the forward, although neither club has yet submitted a formal offer.
As per the sources, Newcastle are even prepared to offer a “substantial sum” to beat the German side to his signature.
📲 Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
Kalimuendo is under contract at Rennes until 2027, but his situation remains fragile, and the Frenchman nearly left last summer.
With Eddie Howe’s side now needing depth up front as Callum Wilson’s deal expires in June and Alexander Isak situation remains vulnerable as he is wanted by top European clubs — Kalimuendo could be primed for a move to Tyneside.
His progressive play metrics (2.51 progressive passes and 1.75 carries per 90, per Fbref) add to his appeal. He being just 23, with Champions League football on the table, the timing appears right
This story comes amid a landmark Premier League campaign for the Newcastle as a Champions League return on the final day, aided by Aston Villa’s loss at Old Trafford.
Newcastle join Liverpool in transfer battle for Brazilian forward
Liverpool and Newcastle are both eyeing Brighton striker Joao Pedro, per talkSPORT.
The Brazilian is open to a move, though Brighton don’t want to sell cheap after having paid £30m [$40m], now the Seagulls are reportedly valuing him at £100m[$135m] and despite a modest return of 10 goals and 6 assists this season, Pedro remains one of the Seagulls’ prized assets.
Newcastle United news and related links
