Report: Newcastle United Prepare for Showdown with Brentford Over an Impressive Striker – Premier League Transfer Race Intensifies
The transfer window drama is heating up as Newcastle United and Brentford emerge as the two frontrunners in the pursuit of Stade Rennais striker Arnaud Kalimuendo. The 23-year-old French forward, fresh off an impressive 2023/24 Ligue 1 campaign where he notched 17 goals and 3 assists in 33 appearances, now finds himself at the centre of serious Premier League interest.
According to L’Equipe, both clubs have opened talks with Rennes in recent days, sparking speculation that Kalimuendo’s days in France could be numbered. The forward, whose contract with Rennes runs until 2027, has built a reputation as one of Ligue 1’s sharpest finishers — and it now seems likely he could test his abilities in England’s top flight before the summer window closes.
A Telling Absence and Manager’s Hint
Rumours of a potential transfer gained further traction after Kalimuendo was left out of Rennes’ pre-season clash with Genoa, which ended in a 2-2 draw. Speaking after the match, head coach Habib Beye offered a cryptic but revealing explanation:
> “I have to anticipate certain things. If things were to change, we have to be able to see other solutions. For the moment, Arnaud is a Stade Rennais player, whom I consider 100% in his commitment to this club, but I have to be able to anticipate in case something happens before the Marseille match.”
Beye’s words strongly suggest the club is bracing itself for Kalimuendo’s possible exit, even if publicly they maintain he is still committed.
Premier League Suitors: Brentford vs Newcastle
While both Newcastle and Brentford are working to secure the striker’s signature, reports indicate Brentford currently hold the edge in negotiations. The Bees are actively seeking a forward to bolster their attack amid uncertainty over Ivan Toney’s long-term future.
Newcastle, however, are far from out of the race. With Eddie Howe’s side aiming to build on their progress in both the Premier League and Europe, a player of Kalimuendo’s profile fits perfectly into their long-term strategy. Earlier in the summer, Leeds United also made an approach, but Kalimuendo reportedly turned them down — signalling his desire to join a club with stronger competitive ambitions.
Why Rennes May Be Forced to Sell
From Rennes’ perspective, losing Kalimuendo would be a blow — his clinical finishing and consistency were vital last season. Yet, with strong Premier League interest and a lengthy contract in place, the French side could command a substantial fee, allowing them to reinvest in their squad.
Should the striker depart, Rennes would face a tight race against time to find a capable replacement before the new season kicks off. The timing is far from ideal, but the financial incentive and Kalimuendo’s career ambitions might make a transfer unavoidable.
What Kalimuendo Could Bring to the Premier League
Kalimuendo’s skillset — pace, movement, composure in front of goal, and the ability to link up play — would make him an asset to either Newcastle or Brentford. For the Magpies, pairing him with Alexander Isak could give Howe a dynamic strike partnership, with Kalimuendo’s sharp runs complementing Isak’s creativity and technical flair.
For Brentford, his arrival could ease the pressure on Toney and add a fresh dimension to Thomas Frank’s attack. His proven record in Ligue 1 suggests he has the adaptability to thrive in the fast-paced, physically demanding Premier League.
Fan and Analyst Perspective
From a Newcastle standpoint, the thought of Kalimuendo joining their project is particularly exciting. His track record shows he has an instinct for goal-scoring, and his decision to reject Leeds earlier this summer demonstrates he is looking for a club where he can challenge at the highest level.
For Brentford, meanwhile, this could be the type of statement signing that reaffirms their status as a club capable of competing for European places.
One thing is certain: whichever club wins this race will be securing a forward with genuine quality and untapped potential. As the transfer window edges closer to its climax, Kalimuendo’s future is a story worth watching — and the final outcome could have significant implications for both Newcastle and Brentford’s ambitions this season.