Brentford leading the race for Arnaud Kalimuendo  | OneFootball

Brentford have emerged as favourites in the race to sign Arnaud Kalimuendo from Stade Rennais, according to L’Equipe.

The 23-year-old French striker has attracted interest from several clubs, but Brentford are currently at the front of the queue.

After developing through the Paris Saint-Germain academy, Kalimuendo joined Rennes, where he has since blossomed into a prolific finisher.

Kalimeundo netted 18 goals in 34 appearances in the 2024-25 season and was the third top scorer in Ligue 1.

With his contract at Rennes running until 2027, they are open to offers of around €30 million.

Brentford’s interest in landing Kalimuendo stems from the need for attacking reinforcements after Bryan Mbeumo’s move to Manchester United.

Yoane Wissa could also be on his way out of the club, with Newcastle United waiting in the wings.

Blessed with pace and a knack for goals, Kalimuendo would provide some much-needed firepower for Brentford.

Off the back of a ninth-place finish last season, Brentford have been relatively active in the transfer market, bringing in seven new players.

However, the Bees have also lost Mark Flekken and Christian Norgaard, alongside manager Thomas Frank.

It will be intriguing to see how they fare in the upcoming campaign, which kicks off with a clash against Nottingham Forest on Sunday.

Brentford are still trying to get some new players in before the September deadline. They have been strongly linked with Bournemouth’s Dango Ouattara.