Manchester United are stepping up their chase for Rennes’ 18-year-old striker Mohamed Kader Meite.
The Red Devils see the forward as one for the present and future. The recruitment team believes Meite fits the profile they want for a striker.
Standing at 1.92 metres, the young forward is tall and built to trouble defenders in ways few young attackers can. Additionally, he has the technical touch of a modern forward. While Meite’s raw power is compared to a young Romelu Lukaku, coaches insist he is an all-round player.
Across 19 appearances in all competitions, Meite has scored three goals and produced two assists. And according to Ed Aarons, Manchester United are keeping tabs on the youngster, having already contacted his entourage.
United see Meite as a reliable Plan B, which could be a game-changer when crosses are delivered into the box.
There is a belief that with the right coaching, he could grow into the first team and earn a starting role, though patience will be required for this to happen. Meite would bring both competition and squad depth.
Rennes are reluctant to sell and would prefer to keep their academy product until the summer. However, the valuation placed on Meite is putting pressure on the French club to sell. The 18-year-old is worth around €30 million and is attracting interest. Rennes head coach Habib Beye admires the player.
In November 2025, when Beye made the bold decision to start Meite against Strasbourg despite Rennes' poor form, he said: "It is also part of my objective to develop Kader, because he is a very good boy who has a lot of qualities."
Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal are also in the race to sign Meite and have already made a bid of around €26 million to test Rennes' resolve. That offer was rejected, but an improved bid of €40 million could soon arrive.
Despite that financial power, Meite is believed to be cautious about leaving Europe so early in his career, feeling that staying in a top European league is better for his development.
A bid above Rennes' asking price for the talented striker may be impossible to refuse. United’s intention remains unclear, as the club decides whether to move for the player now or wait until the summer.
What is certain is that Meite is an exciting talent who has caught the attention of Europe's biggest clubs. Choosing the right destination could transform him into an elite player. Whether he moves to United or not, their interest shows how fast his reputation is growing across Europe.
