Al-Hilal make move for Rennes forward Kader Meïté | OneFootball

Al-Hilal have made a concrete approach for Rennes forward Kader Meïté, with the Saudi club prepared to pay a significant sum to convince the Ligue 1 side this winter, according to L'Équipe.

Decision-makers in the Roshn Saudi League have adjusted their transfer strategy over recent windows. Big-name stars still join the heavyweights, while smaller sides benefit as the league also targets leading young talent worldwide, helping clubs add players who do not fall under the 10-foreigner registration cap.

French prospects Saïmon Bouabré at Neom and Valentin Atangana at Al-Ahli have already signed up to that project. In that context, Al-Hilal have identified Meïté, 18, who has 30 senior appearances for Rennes with five goals and two assists. His start has been noticed across Europe.

By moving now, Al-Hilal hope to steal a march before stronger competition emerges in the summer.

In recent days, a major Premier League club, whose name has not emerged, has indicated it could enter the race if an opening appears this winter. Whether Meïté leaves his formative club in the coming days would first hinge on Rennes accepting a sale, and they have already signalled a wish to extend a contract that runs until 2028.

Source: L'Équipe