Newcastle United willing to pay ‘substantial sum’ to sign 23yr old star – Magpies make approach
The transfer rumour mill has kicked into high gear as Newcastle United set their sights on Stade Rennais’ rising star Arnaud Kalimuendo, with reports suggesting the Magpies have already taken concrete steps to secure the French striker’s signature.
At just 23 years old, Kalimuendo has emerged as one of Ligue 1’s most exciting attacking talents, netting 18 goals and providing 2 assists across 34 appearances this season – form that hasn’t gone unnoticed by Europe’s elite.
According to French publication L’Equipe, Newcastle have joined Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen in making preliminary approaches for the Paris Saint-Germain academy product.
While neither club has yet tabled an official bid, the report indicates Newcastle are prepared to spend significantly to bring Kalimuendo to St James’ Park.
The young forward’s current contract runs until 2027, but Rennes may face increasing pressure to sell as interest grows from top European clubs.
Kalimuendo’s potential arrival could signal a new era for Newcastle’s attack. With Callum Wilson’s contract expiring this summer and ongoing speculation surrounding Alexander Isak’s future – albeit less intense than in previous months – the Magpies appear to be proactively planning their striking options.
The French international represents an intriguing blend of youth and proven quality, having consistently delivered in Ligue 1 after nearly departing Rennes last summer.
Newcastle’s recruitment team clearly sees Kalimuendo as someone who could thrive in Eddie Howe’s system.
His pace, intelligent movement, and clinical finishing would offer a different dimension to Newcastle’s attack, while his age profile fits the club’s strategy of building around emerging talents.
The reported interest from Xabi Alonso’s Leverkusen – renowned for their astute player development – only reinforces Kalimuendo’s growing reputation across Europe.
As the summer window approaches, this transfer saga promises to develop into one of the more intriguing ones.
Newcastle’s willingness to pay a “substantial sum” demonstrates their ambition to compete at the highest level, while Kalimuendo would represent another statement signing following the arrivals of Sandro Tonali and Harvey Barnes in recent years.
For now, Magpies fans will watch with interest as their club battles Leverkusen for one of France’s most exciting young forwards.