Nottingham Forest must decide whether to keep Arnaud Kalimuendo as the transfer window closes, after the 24‑year‑old striker netted three goals in four pre‑season matches, including a header against Bayer Leverkusen. The club sits 16th in the Premier League after finishing the 2025 season with 44 points, a recent 1‑1 draw with Bournemouth on 24 May 2026, and a current form of 0W‑3D‑2L.
Why is Kalimuendo’s situation urgent?
Kalimuendo returned from a loan at Eintracht Frankfurt, where he scored six goals and provided an assist in 19 appearances. Frankfurt wanted to trigger a £23 million option to buy, but the club’s asking price has now risen to £30 million after his strong pre‑season displays. Oliver Glasner’s side needs clarity before the Premier League campaign begins, especially as Tai‑won Awoniyi and Chris Wood enter the final year of their contracts, adding pressure on the attacking line‑up.
What has Glasner said about the striker?
Glasner praised Kalimuendo after a recent friendly against Notts County, noting, "He had a fantastic game today, not just with the goal he scored. He found very good positions between the lines." The manager admitted the transfer market is heating up, but emphasized that Kalimuendo remains a Forest player with the chance to prove himself, echoing the club’s desire to finalise its attack before the season starts.
How does the transfer decision affect Forest’s outlook?
Selling Kalimuendo could leave Forest scrambling for a replacement, given the limited summer signings-only Ousmane Diomande and Xaver Schlager have joined the squad. Retaining the French international would preserve a young, quick, and technically gifted option who could help the club improve on its 48‑goal tally and narrow the three‑goal deficit that saw them concede 51 this season. A decision now could also influence the upcoming home fixture against Coventry on 19 September 2026.
What are the possible scenarios?
If Forest accepts Frankfurt’s offer, they risk losing a player who could boost their goal output, potentially widening the gap of 41 points behind league leaders Arsenal. Conversely, keeping Kalimuendo may require a higher wage bill but offers the chance to solidify the front line and avoid further contract battles with Awoniyi and Wood. Either way, the club must act swiftly as the transfer deadline looms.
