Nottingham Forest forward Arnaud Kalimuendo could be attracting renewed interest from Eintracht Frankfurt ahead of the January transfer window, following limited playing time at the City Ground this season.
Kalimuendo spent the latter half of last season on loan at Frankfurt, where the German club explored a permanent transfer, but negotiations over a fee were unsuccessful. Despite impressing Forest’s new head coach Oliver Glasner during pre-season—a period when Kalimuendo scored three goals and demonstrated versatility across several positions—the 24-year-old has featured sparingly in competitive matches. His only appearances this term came as a late substitute and starter in two early fixtures against Leeds United, one in the Premier League and one in the Carabao Cup, with no playing time since August.
Reports indicate Frankfurt still maintain an interest in Kalimuendo and are monitoring his situation closely, potentially considering another loan deal that could include an option or obligation to buy. However, there is uncertainty regarding the Bundesliga club’s current need for the forward, given their positive offensive form this season, contrasting with Forest’s struggles in attack. The English side has suffered four home games without scoring, including a 1-0 setback to Coventry City last Saturday, emphasizing an area Glasner will likely address during the upcoming international break.
Earlier comments from Eintracht Frankfurt manager Adi Hutter acknowledged the club’s attempts to secure Kalimuendo on deadline day but noted that Nottingham Forest blocked the move. “We tried everything. But it didn’t work because of the other side,” Hutter said. He added that he remained satisfied with his current attacking options, stating, “As long as they’re fit, I want to let the lads up front run. We’re sticking with that for now because it’s worked well in many games.”
Conversely, Glasner has voiced a preference to retain Kalimuendo, praising the player’s quality, work ethic, pace, and goal threat. The coach highlighted the forward’s adaptability within his tactical system, indicating Kalimuendo’s ability to operate in multiple roles, including as a winger or even an attacking wingback.
Kalimuendo’s future at Forest remains uncertain as the January transfer window approaches, with Frankfurt positioned as a potential destination should the two clubs reach new terms. Meanwhile, Forest will be looking to improve their attacking output following a difficult start to the season under Glasner’s management.