Arsenal and Manchester United made enquiries about Al-Hilal forward Mohamed Kader Meïté before the summer transfer window closed, with both clubs continuing to monitor the highly rated 18-year-old.
TEAMtalk reports that Manchester United have maintained contact over the France Under-21 international, while Arsenal were among several Premier League clubs alerted to the possibility of a deal. Aston Villa, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur are also understood to have been kept informed about the striker’s situation.
Arsenal and Manchester United track Al-Hilal forward
Meïté joined Al-Hilal from Rennes in February on a three-and-a-half-year contract after attracting interest from a number of leading European clubs. The Saudi Arabian side viewed the forward as one of the brightest young talents in French football and were prepared to invest in his development.
However, the move to the Middle East has not ended speculation over a possible return to Europe. Intermediaries explored opportunities for Meïté during the summer, and the player was reportedly open to considering a move back to European football.
Al-Hilal ultimately rejected the approaches. The club remain convinced of Meïté’s potential and were reluctant to sanction his departure only months after securing his services.
The forward has continued to feature for the Saudi club under manager Simone Inzaghi, strengthening Al-Hilal’s belief that he can develop into an important first-team player. His long-term role, though, is expected to be assessed in the coming months.
That review will take place with Richard Hughes set to take up a senior sporting role at Al-Hilal. Hughes is expected to help determine whether Meïté remains part of the club’s plans or whether a route back to European football should be explored.
Arsenal already have considerable competition among their attacking options, meaning they would need to offer Meïté a clear development pathway. Manchester United, meanwhile, could regard the teenager as a potential alternative in their forward line, but would also need to provide assurances over his route into the first team.
For now, Al-Hilal retain control of the situation and have shown no willingness to sell. Meïté’s potential availability is likely to remain a talking point, with Arsenal and Manchester United among the clubs keeping a close eye on his progress.
