A blockbuster deal is on the horizon: Saudi Arabia's Al-Hilal targets France's rising star
In a move reflecting a major strategic shift in the Saudi transfer market, Al-Hilal, the leading club in Asia, is poised to finalize a historic deal by signing young French striker Mohamed Kader Meïté (18 years old). Reliable reports indicate that Al-Hilal is very close to acquiring the talented Stade Rennais player for a fee that could reach €30 million. This deal confirms that the Saudi league is no longer just a destination for established stars, but has become a fierce competitor for the brightest young talents in Europe.
Who is Muhammad Qadir Miti?
Born in 2007, Mohamed Kader Meïté is a French striker with immense technical and physical abilities. He began his career at Montrouge before being spotted by scouts from Stade Rennais, known as one of the best talent academies in France, which he joined in the summer of 2023. Despite his young age, Meïté quickly proved himself, participating in several Ligue 1 matches this season, scoring 3 goals and providing one assist, which attracted the attention of major European clubs.
General context: A new strategy for the Saudi League
The potential signing of Meite comes within the broader context of the football revolution in Saudi Arabia. After Saudi clubs successfully attracted global superstars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Karim Benzema, a new phase has begun, focused on building for the future. This strategy involves signing promising young players who can lead their teams for years to come and sustainably raise the league's overall standard. The transfer of a player with Meite's qualities, who was on the radar of Premier League clubs, is clear evidence that the Saudi sports project now possesses an appeal that transcends mere financial offers.
Details of Al-Hilal's performance and their superiority over England's giants
According to press sources, most notably the reliable journalist Fabrizio Romano, Al-Hilal has reached a near-final agreement with Stade Rennais and the player. Al-Hilal's offer includes a long-term contract extending for four and a half years, with the total value of the deal approaching €30 million. Reports indicate that Al-Hilal's budget allocated for the transfer could have reached €40 million to secure the deal. Remarkably, Al-Hilal succeeded in convincing the player to choose their offer over interest from major English clubs such as Manchester United and Chelsea, as well as Tottenham and Aston Villa. Manchester United was actively seeking to bolster its attack, while Chelsea sent scouts to closely monitor the player. However, Al-Hilal's ambitious vision and strong negotiating position ultimately decided the player's destination in Riyadh.
Importance and expected impact of the deal
Domestically, signing Meite represents a strategic investment in Al-Hilal's future attack, ensuring the presence of a talent capable of developing into a key player. At the Saudi league level, this deal enhances its competitiveness and changes its image, confirming its status as an attractive environment for developing young players. Internationally, the transfer sends a clear message that Saudi clubs are capable of competing with European giants in the transfer market, not only financially, but also by offering comprehensive sporting projects that entice young talents to join them. The success of Meite's move could pave the way for other European talents to make a similar move in the future.
