‘Controlled risk’ – Frankfurt play it smart with Nottingham Forest striker

Eintracht Frankfurt view their imminent move for Nottingham Forest striker Arnaud Kalimuendo as a “controlled risk”, with German media suggesting both the club and head coach Dino Toppmöller have every reason to be satisfied.

The Bundesliga side are closing in on a loan deal that will see Kalimuendo arrive from Forest until the end of the season, with an option to make the move permanent in the summer.

According to Frankfurter Rundschau, Eintracht Frankfurt have agreed terms with Nottingham Forest on a loan that includes a €25m purchase clause.

Kalimuendo is expected to undergo a medical this weekend before completing the move. The 22-year-old will arrive as a direct replacement for Elye Wahi, who recently departed Frankfurt to join Nice on loan.

The German outlet describes the deal as a smart piece of business, allowing Frankfurt to assess a once highly rated striker without committing fully at this stage.

From the club’s perspective, the structure offers flexibility. Frankfurt gain immediate attacking depth, pace and finishing ability, while retaining control over their summer plans depending on Kalimuendo’s impact.

For the player, the move represents a fresh start after a difficult spell in England. Kalimuendo has struggled to make a consistent impression since joining Forest in the summer and now has the opportunity to reset in a league that often suits mobile forwards.

Head coach Dino Toppmöller is expected to welcome the arrival. The report notes that Kalimuendo’s profile fits Frankfurt’s needs well, particularly given their packed fixture schedule.

He is seen as a player capable of contributing immediately rather than a longer-term project, adding another option across the front line while maintaining intensity and speed in transition.

From Nottingham Forest’s side, the move is viewed as a sensible outcome for a player who has found momentum hard to come by. The loan allows Kalimuendo to regain confidence and form, while keeping the door open for a permanent solution in the summer.

All sides involved are described as benefiting from the arrangement, with the “controlled risk” label reflecting the balance built into the deal.

Kalimuendo is set to complete his medical and link up with Frankfurt in the coming days. Attention will then turn to how quickly he can settle and influence a side competing on multiple fronts.

Is this the right environment for Arnaud Kalimuendo to revive his form — or does Frankfurt still need more firepower up front?