Leeds United are reportedly interested in Paris Saint-Germain striker Arnaud Kalimuendo. The Peacocks have been one of the busiest Premier League clubs in the summer transfer window, signing as many as six players so far.
Jesse Marsch wants a few more new additions to his squad before the first game of the new season against Wolves next month. And according to 90min, Leeds United have opened talks with Paris Saint-Germain over a deal to sign Arnaud Kalimuendo.
They have amplified their efforts in getting the young French forward. The Whites are close to agreeing a £21million deal with PSG, having had an initial offer of €20million rejected, the report adds.
A youth product of the PSG academy, Kalimuendo, 20, has spent the last two seasons on loan at RC Lens, and has scored 21 goals in 65 games. The youngster has made quite the name for himself in his short career, with Italian club Sassuolo among his admirers.
Leeds are close to agreeing terms on £21m deal with PSG to sign striker Arnaud Kalimuendo. (90min) pic.twitter.com/JCoETpnfci
— Transfer News Central (@TransferNewsCen) July 15, 2022
But as things stand, Leeds are confident of getting a deal over the line for the French Under-21 forward.
Arnaud Kalimuendo to Leeds United – A smart long-term investment?
Leeds United have made a few exciting signings this summer but they will need to cope with the high-profile exits of Kalvin Phillips and Raphinha. Both Phillips and Raphinha have been such key players for the Whites, especially the latter in the Premier League.
Raphinha, who played an instrumental role in Leeds’ great escape from the jaws of relegation last term, has joined Barcelona, leaving a massive void in Marsch’s squad as a result. The Peacocks already struggled in goal with Patrick Bamford missing a large chunk of the last season, and with Raphinha now moving on for pastures new, Marsch has seemingly turned his attention to getting a forward.
🚨 #lufc have met PSG £21M valuation for Arnaud Kalimuendo in a bid to end their search for a striker. 🚨
(L'equipe🗞)
— Juan Martínez (@Juan_Martinez37) July 14, 2022
With Bamford firmly established as the club’s first-choice striker when fit, the Whites are scouring the market for a younger profile with high potential who will not only develop under Marsch but also compete with the England international right now. To that end, PSG striker Arnaud Kalimuendo fits the bill perfectly at Elland Road.
Having shown extremely promising signs in his two seasons with Lens, it is hard to argue that Kalimuendo would not be a success at Leeds if they manage to get a deal over the line.
Pacey, agile and versatile with strong link-up play and finishing ability, Kalimuendo has the qualities to hit the ground running in the Premier League.
The Frenchman may have netted 12 goals in Ligue 1 last season, but he is still raw and will only get better with more experience under his belt.
As Bamford is likely to remain Leeds’ main man up top next season, Marsch can afford to have Kalimuendo develop into a prolific forward over time. Until then, the PSG starlet can offer the American tactician another solid goal-scoring option or an impact substitute off the bench.
Having said that, Leeds must do everything within their powers to sign Kalimuendo as quickly as possible.