Manchester United were interested in signing centre-forward Kader Meite but he snubbed Old Trafford for a move to the Saudi Pro League.
Because of his rapid progression in France, Kader Meite is one of the most exciting striker prospects in world football.
The 6ft 4in, 18-year-old striker was available in the January transfer market and Ineos were showing a keen interest as their latest wonderkid target.
Instead of pursuing a move to Old Trafford, Meite moved to Al-Hilal in a £26m deal and he has now opened his goalscoring account in the Saudi Pro League.
Al Hilal v Al Taawoun: Saudi Pro League
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Kader Meite scores ‘magnificent’ wonder goal for Al-Hilal
United won’t have many regrets over Meite because there are already exciting prospects like JJ Gabriel and Chido Obi coming through the ranks at Carrington.
But Meite is starting to show his potential in Saudi, and he scored a wonder goal in his first start for Al-Hilal.
Meite opened the scoring in Al-Hilal’s 2-2 draw against Al-Taawoun over the weekend, and he did so in brilliant fashion, beating a player out wide and bursting into the box before finishing with a low-driven strike.
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Outlet DailySports described it as a “magnificent” goal in what was his first start for the Saudi side.
Meite was starting in the absence of Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema, and now he will be hoping to compete for a regular starting spot.
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Godwill Kukonki of Manchester United during the FA Youth Cup fourth round match between Manchester United and Derby County at Old Trafford on January 23, 2026
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Kader Meite could become a major regret for Man United
Joshua Zirkzee is expected to leave United this summer, meaning the Red Devils will be in the market for attacking reinforcements to support Benjamin Sesko up front.
Chido Obi will hope to break through next season, but his reputation has dialled down this season as he continues his development.
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Meite is the same age as Obi and is starting to fulfil his exciting potential, albeit in the Saudi Pro League.
If Meite goes on to become a generational talent, United will look back on the 2026 January transfer window as a missed opportunity.
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