Leeds United are reportedly closing in on the capture of PSG striker Arnaud Kalimuendo this summer.
According to The Independent, Leeds United have become the undisputed favourite in the race to sign Arnaud Kalimuendo. The PSG striker is expected to leave the French capital in the summer, knowing he might not have many prospects in the first-team even after returning from a promising loan spell at Lens.
There were reports of Leeds United closing in on an agreement with PSG over a sale earlier in the month. But the striker was apprehensive about the move, knowing it would be a step down for him from a sporting perspective. However, The Independent claim the youngster is now increasingly considering the prospect of joining Leeds ahead of the new season.
The PSG striker believes Elland Road could be an ideal place for his development, especially after a successful spell at Lens. The Whites lack the services of a reliable goalscorer other than Patrick Bamford, who struggled with injuries last season and cannot be relied upon as the sole striker next term.
Although Leeds have solidified their creative ranks by bringing in Brenden Aaronson and Luis Sinisterra, the addition of a new centre-forward remains a priority and that is where Arnaud Kalimuendo fits the bill.
Despite standing at just 1.75m, the 20-year-old has made a solid impression with his goalscoring prowess in Ligue 1 lately. He had racked up 12 goals in the French top flight last season, helping Lens finish seventh in the league. In addition to his productivity, the PSG striker showcased excellent versatility as he often drifted into wide positions if required.
Such qualities could make him an excellent option for Leeds United, as coach Jesse Marsch likes his players to offer flexibility in the final third. The presence of Kalimuendo, therefore, could be handy as he can not only provide backup for Bamford but also serve as a secondary forward.
However, Leeds United must be mindful of the competition in the race to sign Kalimuendo this summer. The PSG striker remains a target for other Premier League clubs as well, including Everton, Crystal Palace and Newcastle United, all of whom were recently offered the opportunity to sign the frontman this summer.
