Nottingham Forest’s fight for Premier League survival has taken center stage in recent weeks, but behind the scenes, plans are already forming for a crucial summer rebuild—especially in attack.
Since taking charge, Vitor Pereira has steadied the ship and guided Forest out of the relegation zone, highlighted by an impressive 3-0 win over Tottenham. However, with just a handful of games remaining, the club knows that staying up is only the first step. Major decisions await, and one of the biggest concerns lies in the striker position.
Igor Jesus, who has led the line for much of the season due to injuries to Chris Wood, has struggled to make a consistent impact. The Brazilian forward has scored just three goals in 30 league appearances, significantly underperforming his expected goals tally. His lack of clinical finishing and limited threat in the final third have raised serious questions about his long-term role at the club.
While replacing a starting striker often requires dipping into the transfer market, Forest may already have the solution within their ranks.
Arnaud Kalimuendo, currently on loan at Eintracht Frankfurt, is quietly rebuilding his reputation. The French forward, signed for £26 million from Rennes, was given limited opportunities earlier in the season before being sent out on loan in January. Since then, he has impressed in the Bundesliga, scoring five goals in just 13 appearances and showing far greater efficiency in front of goal than Jesus.
Kalimuendo’s performances suggest he could offer exactly what Forest have been missing—sharp movement, composure in the box, and the ability to convert chances consistently. His track record in France further strengthens his case, having scored 17 league goals in the 2024/25 season prior to his move to England.
With Frankfurt reportedly unlikely to make his move permanent due to financial constraints, the door is open for Kalimuendo to return to the City Ground this summer. For Pereira, this presents a valuable opportunity to reassess a player he has yet to work with—effectively giving the striker a clean slate.
The contrast between Kalimuendo and Jesus is becoming increasingly clear. While Jesus has struggled to convert opportunities, Kalimuendo has been more clinical and productive in fewer appearances, highlighting a potential upgrade already within the squad.
As Forest prepare for what could be a defining summer, the decision may not be about who to sign—but whether to trust a player they already own. If given a proper chance, Kalimuendo could emerge as the solution to their attacking struggles and play a key role in shaping the club’s future.
