Eintracht Frankfurt’s pursuit of Arnaud Kalimuendo on a permanent deal is proving difficult, with negotiations with Nottingham Forest stalling despite the player agreeing personal terms.
Kalimuendo spent the latter half of last season on loan at Frankfurt, making a positive impression and prompting the Bundesliga club to explore a permanent transfer. While the 21-year-old forward has reportedly agreed to a contract extending to 2031 with Eintracht Frankfurt, according to Bild, a deal with Nottingham Forest remains elusive.
The primary obstacle appears to be the arrival of Oliver Glasner as Nottingham Forest’s new head coach. Glasner, who previously managed Eintracht Frankfurt, is known to be an admirer of Kalimuendo, recently praising the player’s performance in a pre-season friendly against Notts County. He highlighted Kalimuendo’s intelligent positioning and work rate, stating he “found very good positions between the lines” and had a “fantastic game” as reported by the Nottingham Post.
Frankfurt initially held a €27 million purchase option for Kalimuendo, but opted not to exercise it, hoping to negotiate a reduced fee with Forest. The club’s decision reflects a calculated risk, aiming to secure the player at a more favorable price point. Kalimuendo joined Nottingham Forest last summer from Rennes for a reported £9.5 million, but struggled to establish himself as a regular starter, making 20 Premier League appearances, mostly as a substitute, and scoring just one goal.
Glasner has publicly acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding Kalimuendo’s future, emphasizing that the transfer market is volatile and that all players have an opportunity to impress during pre-season. He confirmed Kalimuendo is currently considered a member of the Nottingham Forest squad and will be given a chance to prove his worth. This stance suggests Forest may be reluctant to sell without securing a suitable replacement, or potentially at a price that meets their valuation.
Should Kalimuendo remain at Nottingham Forest, Glasner would gain a versatile attacking option. If a deal with Eintracht Frankfurt can be struck, it would provide the German club with a proven goalscorer and a player familiar with their system, potentially strengthening their challenge in the Bundesliga.
