United remain interested in Al-Hilal star who wanted Europe return this summer | OneFootball

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Manchester United were interested in Mohamed Kader Meite at the beginning of the year, but Al-Hilal pipped them to his signature in January. The Red Devils have targeted talented young players with a high ceiling of late and the Ivorian fits the bill.

Meite’s progress through the ranks at Rennes was rapid and he ultimately broke into the senior side in 2024. He was quite impressive for the French side, prompting United to enter the race at the turn of the year, but their pursuit ultimately ended in disappointment.

The Premier League giants were also in the market for a new striker this summer, but ended up without reinforcing the position. United were considering a replacement for Joshua Zirkzee, who was heavily linked with an exit from Old Trafford, but ultimately ended up staying.

While their plans failed to materialise, it appears that the Red Devils have retained their interest in Meite.

United retain Meite interest

According to TEAMtalk, United have retained their interest in Meite after eyeing him this summer. The report states: “Several Premier League clubs, including Arsenal and Manchester United, made enquiries about striking starlet Mohamed Kader Meite before the transfer deadline, with their interest in the France Under-21s star still active, TEAMtalk understands.”

The report confirms that even though the Ivorian joined Al-Hilal in January, the Red Devils maintained contact with the player, adding: “TEAMtalk sources can confirm that United maintained contact over the striker, while several other Premier League clubs were alerted to his potential availability this summer.”

Meite was reportedly ready to move back to Europe this summer, although the Saudi side refused to let him go. The report continues: “TEAMtalk understands Meite himself was considering a return to Europe this summer, with intermediaries exploring potential opportunities after his move to Saudi Arabia.”

“However, Al-Hilal’s stance ultimately proved decisive, with the club unwilling to entertain approaches this summer, despite the level of Premier League interest.”

Al-Hilal yet to make Meite decision

Al-Hilal are already convinced of Meite’s potential, although his stay in the Middle East is not set in stone. The Saudi side are all set to welcome former Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes in a senior sporting role this year.

The Scot will be tasked with assessing the Ivorian’s situation and making a decision on his future. TEAMtalk concludes: “TEAMtalk understands Hughes will be tasked with assessing Meite’s long-term future and deciding whether the teenager is ultimately part of the club’s plans in Saudi Arabia or whether a route back to European football should be explored.”

Mohamed Kader Meite Stats: 2026/26 Season

The 6’4” striker knows his way to goal, is blessed with blistering pace, and is very good at finding free space in the final third. Meite is also excellent in the air, can shield the ball and is technically sound, qualities that have endeared him to the Old Trafford hierarchy.

Final Thoughts

Meite is exactly the kind of player United should be targeting at the moment. While INEOS narrowly missed out on the Ivorian earlier this year, they could have a chance to secure his services in 2027.

The Peoples Person Reliability Assessment Overall credibility: 6/10 Why?

✅ Reported by Graeme Bailey, who has a decent United track record. ✅ United were previously linked with the player in January. ⚠️ No official confirmation from the club regarding a move.

We believe it is quite likely that Meite will be among the players currently being monitored by United. However, it is too early to suggest that the Red Devils will move for the player next year.