De Ketelaere saga prompts Leeds United bid for savvy alternative Arnaud Kalimuendo

Leeds United could soon make the signing of Paris Saint-Germain forward Arnaud Kalimuendo, as it looks likely they could miss out on Charles De Ketelaere.

The Whites’ pursuit of De Ketelaere has been well reported of late. Indeed, it was at the beginning of July that they submitted a bid in the region of £30million for the forward.

Clearly, Leeds are keen on landing the forward. Their eagerness is demonstrated by the fee offered, as it would make him their most expensive signing ever.

However, the pursuit has not been plain sailing, with AC Milan looking to rain on the Whites’ parade.

While Leeds’ offer is clearly an attractive one to Club Brugge, De Ketelaere himself is reportedly angling for a move to the Serie A outfit.

As such, it would be a smart plan for Jesse Marsch’s side to look for an alternative. The Independent reports that they are doing just that.

That report states that the forward they are now keen on is PSG youngster Kalimuendo. Despite being just 20 years of age, the talisman has produced some good moments in Ligue 1.

Last season, while on loan at Lens, Kalimuendo bagged 12 goals in the league, and one in the Coupe De France. His goals tally made him the joint-tenth top-scorer in the league.

Indeed, his eye for goal could mean he becomes a crucial asset for Leeds.

They have reportedly tabled an offer of £17million for the star, which is being weighed up by him and PSG.

Kalimuendo deal ideal for Leeds

Should Leeds land Kalimuendo for £17million, then they should adjudge the signing a job well done. That fee is almost half of what they have offered for De Ketelaere.

While their sights were firmly fixed on the Belgian, there was not too much of a difference between how he and Kalimuendo performed last season. Indeed, the former provided seven assists, compared to none for Kalimuendo, but only topped him by two league goals.

Clearly, Leeds are looking for a striker, though, and will surely be more interested in goals output than assists. There are many players in the squad that can chip in with assists, but goals are more crucial.

As such, it would seem Kalimuendo, while not their first choice, would be a good addition to the squad nonetheless.