Manchester United is focusing on recruiting young European talent, aiming to develop players into regular first-team members instead of looking for instant stars.
As financial sustainability becomes crucial at Old Trafford, the scouting team has increased efforts in France, where they are tracking several teenage talents this season.
The Premier League club is also monitoring the growing presence of Saudi clubs in the European talent market, which are acquiring players at an age when they would typically transfer within Europe.
This shift has already changed transfer strategies for many top clubs, including United, which recognizes that competition now extends beyond other teams in England and Europe.
This fact was highlighted by a recently finalized transfer deal in the Middle East.
Al-Hilal has officially signed promising French striker Mohamed Kader Meite, agreeing to a three-and-a-half-year contract to bring the 18-year-old from Stade Rennais, as announced on their website.
Meite is viewed as one of the top young attacking prospects in France, having progressed through Rennes’ youth system to the senior team.
His growth at the club level matches his international experience, where he’s represented France at various youth levels, including U16, U17, U19, and U21, making him a player expected to make a significant impact in Europe.
However, he will next join Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League, which continues its strategy of combining established stars with elite young talent.
For Manchester United, this transfer is significant as Kader Meite was on their radar as they focused on young forwards with potential for the future.
United had been tracking his progress in France, considering him as a long-term option rather than an immediate solution, especially with plans for the post-current squad era.
Ultimately, United chose not to engage in a fast-paced bidding war that favored Al-Hilal both financially and in terms of project appeal.
The Saudi club is openly ambitious about dominating domestic and international competitions, viewing Meite as a valuable investment for both now and the future.