Newcastle poised to seal €30m Arnaud Kalimuendo transfer as Rennes give star striker permission to speak with other clubs

Newcastle have received a huge boost to their transfer aspirations, as Rennes' star striker Kalimuendo has been permitted by club president Arnaud Pouille to enter into talks with other clubs ahead of a potential summer switch.

Kalimuendo had a breakthrough season for Rennes in Ligue 1, scoring 17 goals in 32 appearances to finish as the league's third-highest goal scorer behind Ousmane Dembele and Mason Greenwood. The former PSG forward's tally of 17 league goals this season alone equalled the combined league goals he had scored in the two seasons prior. His efficiency in front of goal has reportedly caught the eye of Premier League giants Newcastle United, as well as Bayer Leverkusen in Germany. Rennes are looking to secure a fee in excess of €30 million (£26m) for the Frenchman, whose contract runs until 2027.

Speaking in an interview with L'Equipe, Rennes president Pouille said: “He is one of the players who had a lot of contacts in January. We have authorised him to speak with other clubs.”

Newcastle will face a significant attacking overhaul next season, with Callum Wilson set to depart as a free agent when his contract expires next month. Additionally, there have been growing speculations linking Alexander Isak with moves to Premier League rivals Arsenal and Liverpool. In this context, the potential signing of Kalimuendo, at just 23 years old, could be a key part of the Magpies’ strategy to reshape their attack. Kalimuendo may be viewed as the future focal point of the forward line, leading the team in a post-Isak era.

Despite their loss to Everton in the final Premier League game of the season, Eddie Howe's men secured a spot in next season's Champions League. To remain a competitive side on all fronts, retaining Isak and signing Kalimuendo next season would be an ideal scenario for Newcastle.