Manchester United will not make a late move for Rennes youngster Kader Meité, with the teenage striker now set to join Al Hilal in a big-money transfer in the final days of the January transfer window.
The 18-year-old forward had been linked with a surprise switch to Old Trafford earlier this week, but it is now clear that United were never seriously pursuing a deal.
Instead, Meité is heading to Saudi Arabia, where Al Hilal has moved quickly to secure his signature.
This news brings an end to a short but loud spell of Manchester United transfer rumours, with United choosing to stay calm and focused on their long-term plans.
United Linked, But No Real Push Made
Reports earlier in the week suggested that Manchester United had held talks with people close to the player over a possible deal worth around £26 million.
This naturally caused excitement among United fans, who are desperate to see fresh faces arrive before the window closes.
However, club sources later played down the story. It soon became clear that United’s name had been used to boost interest in the player, rather than signal a real transfer move.
Those close to the club suggested that agent’s talk had made the situation sound bigger than it really was.
United has made it clear throughout January that they were not planning major business. Their main focus remains a full rebuild in the summer, rather than rushing into deals now.
Meité Chooses Al Hilal Project
While Premier League clubs were loosely linked, Al Hilal moved with real intent. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed the move and used his famous “here we go” line to signal the deal was almost done.
The agreement includes a fee of around €30 million, which is a huge figure for an 18-year-old with limited top-level experience.
Meité has scored three league goals in 17 appearances this season, showing promise but still very much raw.
Despite interest from Europe, the youngster has chosen the Saudi route, with Al Hilal’s project under Simone Inzaghi seen as an attractive next step in his career.
Why Manchester United Were Never Likely to Act
Manchester United’s stance has been consistent throughout the January window. The club does not want short-term signings and is unwilling to overspend on players who are not guaranteed starters.
United is currently focused on:
- A midfield rebuild
- Adding a left winger
- Strengthening at full-back
While the club admits they are light in central midfield, they would rather wait than panic-buy.
There is still a small chance of a late midfield addition, but only if the right long-term option becomes available.
This approach shows a change in thinking at Old Trafford, with lessons clearly learned from past transfer mistakes.
What This Means for United Fans
For many Manchester United fans, the Meité story is a reminder of how transfer rumours can grow quickly without much truth behind them.
While some supporters may feel disappointed that no striker is arriving, others see this as a sensible move.
United are avoiding another gamble and instead saving funds for the summer, when bigger and better options should be available.
The club are still aiming for Champions League qualification, and while injuries remain a concern, United believe their best chance lies in stability rather than rushed signings.
Quiet End to January for United
As the final days of the January transfer window approach, Manchester United are expected to remain quiet.
There will be gossip and rumours, but no major deals are planned unless something unexpected opens up.
Kader Meité’s move to Al Hilal confirms that United are happy to walk away when a deal does not fully fit their plan.
For now, all eyes turn to the summer, where United are expected to be far more active as they look to reshape the squad and return to challenging at the top of the Premier League.
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