Leeds United’s striker search continues to be one of frustration this summer, with reports of targets rejecting them for other opportunities.
Over the weekend, it was reported that Leeds United agreed a fee for a striker, but that Sassuolo’s Andrea Pinamonti rejected the move to Leeds in favour of the Serie A if the latest reports are to be believed.
He is not the only centre-forward that the 49ers, Adam Underwood, Robbie Evans, and co. have considered this summer. Daniel Farke is looking to bolster his options further with reliable and consistent goals.
Joel Piroe brings output but lacks the athleticism and/or physicality required to be a number-nine in the top flight. Lukas Nmecha has some output but the better physical profile due to his pace and power.
Leeds, ideally, want to bring someone in who ticks all of these boxes — but centre-forwards of that ilk do not come cheap on the market.
Arnaud Kalimuendo in action for French side Rennes.
Photo by LOU BENOIST/AFP via Getty Images
Arnaud Kalimuendo reportedly rejects Leeds move
One player who has pace and power, for his size, is Arnaud Kalimuendo. He is a real blast from the past, with Leeds being listed as one of a number of teams interested in doing a deal for the Rennes striker Kalimuendo, after another super season.
Years back, Kalimuendo was the subject of a £17 million bid from Leeds during Jesse Marsch’s era. Now, after a brilliant season with Rennes, it’s reported that the 33-time France U-21 international is back on Leeds’ radar this summer.
So, if prior to relegation Leeds wanted Kalimuendo, nothing materialised. That interest has reportedly been re-ignited but other clubs are interested, including Saturday’s opponents in the final pre-season friendly, AC Milan.
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Further developments have since emerged regarding the 23-year-old. Leeds are reported to have had a move rejected for Kalimuendo. French outlet L’Equipe report that there is other interest, though.
They write: “Talks are currently taking place between Rennes and two Premier League clubs: Brentford and Newcastle.
“Things are said to be a little more advanced with the former, while the player, under contract until 2027, has turned down Leeds.”
In the last three seasons, the young Frenchman has bagged 48 goal involvements in 112 games, including 40 goals in that time.
Arnaud Kalimuendo salutes the crowd during Stade Rennais vs OGC Nice
Photo by DAMIEN MEYER/AFP via Getty Images
Leeds’ interest in Kalimuendo is not as L’Equipe report, here’s why
Leeds United News have since learned via sources speaking anonymously from the club that Leeds have had interest in the striker this summer.
However, it has never gone beyond a surface level of intrigue in Kalimuendo, as they have stated that Leeds never made an official approach.
Despite their admiration of the player, they are currently focusing elsewhere. It has not been confirmed why, but we can perhaps speculate that Kalimuendo is simply vastly different from the kinds of striker they have considered.
Most options Leeds have been looking at are comfortably over 6’0″ and have serious strength and the ability to link the attack. Kalimuendo is only 5’9″ and that could be the reason why.
Instead, Leeds have streamlined their striker shortlist down to four options in the centre-forward department this summer.