Nottingham Forest have moved to confirm the arrival of French striker Arnaud Kalimuendo from Rennes.
Kalimuendo completed his medical over the weekend and joins Forest on a long-term contract until 2030.
The 23-year-old talisman scored 18 goals in all competitions last season and moves to the club for a fee in the region of £26 million, with a number of add-ons also included.
Chris Wood scored two goals against Brentford in the season opener, and with Igor Jesus coming on for his debut, the Reds are now well stocked in attack.
Arnaud Kalimuendo featuring for France at the 2023 U21 Euros.
Photo by Flaviu Buboi/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Arnaud Kalimuendo signs for Nottingham Forest
This feels like a statement of intent and Forest have arguably signed the player who will one day replace Wood in the attack.
With the New Zealand talisman scoring 20 goals last season and two on the opening day of this season, it does feel like the shirt is his to lose right now.
A lack of depth cost Forest last season, though and having Kalimuendo as an option in reserve bodes well for the season with Europa League football on the cards.
After signing for Forest, he told the official website: “When I heard about the interest from Forest, I was honoured. This is a proud moment for me, joining a team that had a strong season last year and a Club with great history.
MORE FOREST STORIES
“I’m ready for the challenge, and I arrive here with good experience. I had a good season last year with goals and assists but I want more and want to reach a new level here.
“I can’t wait to play in the Premier League, and to play at the City Ground. I watched games from last season and it’s clear the fans create a beautiful atmosphere. I’m excited to see them and impatient to get started.”
Kalimuendo could thrive in the Premier League
There is an awful lot to like about this signing, alongside the fact that at 23, he’s a long-term investment and not a short-term fix.
Kalimuendo has the pace to get in behind defenders and perhaps his style of play will allow Espirito Santo to mix things up during games.
Ligue 1 isn’t the Premier League, but the fact that he’s played in European competitions during his career should help Forest this season in the Europa League.
Having options from the bench is a must if Forest are to continue progressing and build on last season, with Kalimuendo now likely to join his teammates for training tomorrow.