CBS Sports reporter Ben Jacobs says Leeds United feel they stand a “realistic chance” of beating Newcastle United in pursuit of PSG’s £20million-rated forward Arnaud Kalimuendo this summer. Both clubs are keen on a striker.
Kalimuendo, 20, has emerged as an option for both clubs after an excellent two-year loan spell with RC Lens from PSG. His first season saw him adapt to senior football, playing 27 times – scoring eight goals and creating six.
Often used out wide as well as up top, he then netted 13 times in 38 games for Lens last season. Still only 20, he is highly-rated in France. Reports say that Leeds have tabled a £17million offer, while PSG want slightly more than that.
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It comes after Leeds look set to miss out on Charles De Ketelaere with Milan his priority. Meanwhile, Newcastle have opted to pull out of a deal for Hugo Ekitike. Jacobs says both clubs are keen on Kalimuendo, and Leeds are confident.
“Kalimuendo would be an excellent signing for Leeds. Newcastle are tracking him too. Kalimuendo would be a bargain at around £20m. He is technically gifted, and always seems to find space. Leeds, feel they stand a realistic chance.”
Leeds stand ‘realistic chance’ of beating Newcastle in Kalimuendo pursuit
As we enter the last six weeks of the window, Leeds are now switching their attention to a striker. It comes after signing six new players – spending almost £100million, including £50million on Brenden Aaronson and Luis Sinisterra.
Patrick Bamford’s struggle with fitness, Joe Gelhardt’s age and Jesse Marsch’s usage of a two-man striker system means a striker is important. Newcastle want competition for Chris Wood and Callum Wilson.
It is easy to see why Leeds would be more tempting. If Marsch does play two up top, then there is much more of an opportunity to get game time for Kalimuendo – unlike, playing in Eddie Howe’s one-striker role on Tyneside.
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