Al-Hilal now make £22m bid to sign Man Utd target from French club - report

Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal have made an opening bid worth £22 million to sign Manchester United target Mohamed Kader Meite from Rennes.

The 18-year-old is one of the promising graduates at the Ligue 1 outfit, but he could leave the club before the transfer window closes on February 2.

Rennes currently value him at £26 million, and Ouest-France reported yesterday that there is interest, especially from United in the Premier League.

Al-Hilal were also mentioned as his suitors, and the same outlet today confirm that the Saudi heavyweights have made a £22m offer for the young striker.

Rennes have immediately rejected the transfer proposal, but Al-Hilal are determined to land his signature and are prepared to make a renewed offer soon.

United poised to miss out on Meite’s signature

Meite made his senior debut at Rennes during the 2024/25 campaign. He has enjoyed a good second season at the club despite being a regular substitute.

The youngster has made five goal contributions from just over 500 minutes in Ligue 1. He appears to be a promising prospect, particularly with his strong aerial presence (77 percent aerials won).

United have been credited with an interest in the France Under-21 international, but they seem unlikely to make a big outlay on his signature this winter, particularly with limited funds at their disposal.

The club were touted to land Al-Hilal midfielder Ruben Neves for £20m earlier this month, but there has been no progress. This suggests that the hierarchy are happy with the current squad outlook.

Midfield duo Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo have been tremendous in recent outings against Manchester City and Arsenal. Manuel Ugarte and Mason Mount are quality backups available for the pair.

The funds could be diverted elsewhere, but United may not spend on an inexperienced striker. They could prefer to keep their budget in reserve for another major spending spree at the end of the season.

Hence, United look poised to miss out on Meite. Al-Hilal could be prepared to come closer to Rennes’ valuation with a second proposal, which could be sufficient to land the teenage marksman.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com

Article written by Sri Aswin .