Manchester United are reportedly planning a late swoop to try and sign a promising talent before the transfer window slams shut on the 2nd February.
Few would have foreseen United winning their two most-recent fixtures, against second-placed Manchester City and first-placed Arsenal.
Even fewer would have predicted such fluid, dynamic displays from a team that, for over a year, had stuttering form under the guidance of Ruben Amorim.
Michael Carrick has had a stellar impact on the Red Devils and with his role as interim manager secure until the end of the season, the ex-Middlesbrough boss can focus entirely on maintaining such form. Manchester United are yet to spend in January, despite links to a number of players, following a summer of heavy expenditure.
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With less than a week of the transfer window remaining, Carrick appears focused on continuing his side's feel-good factor above anything else. Speaking after his side's incredible 3-2 win at the Emirates Stadium against Arsenal, Carrick was asked where he thought his team were after such amazing victories in back-to-back games.
As per the official Man United website, he said: “I think it's more about the feeling that this gives us, really, as a group. And the players and as a club, and certainly the supporters. That’s my concern - how that can bring us together and lift us, in a real positive manner."
Though it would appear that Carrick is predominantly concerned with bringing his current players together, the Red Devils are reportedly tracking a promising prospect from the top division of French football.
Red Devils waiting to pounce on "elite" forward
Reports in France, as per Sport Witness, have noted that Manchester United are plotting a late 'ambush' for Mohamed Kader Meite in the last knockings of the transfer window.
Just 18 years old, the forward broke into the Stade Rennais first team in 2024 and has continued his progression this season, netting three goals and notching two assists in 17 Ligue 1 appearances. Unsurprisingly, Meite's potential has attracted attention from elsewhere.
Regarded as an "elite" talent by scout Jacek Kulig, reports have suggested that Manchester United are "waiting in ambush" for Meite, who Stade Rennais would sell for £26 million.
Carrick has, throughout his time as a manager, relied on younger players. So far at Old Trafford, the ex-midfielder has overseen the reintegration of Kobbie Mainoo into the first team and could work similarly well with a player such as Meite.
It is unlikely that Meite would arrive as a guaranteed starter, but showing that there is an obvious pathway for young talents into the first team could benefit Man United in their pursuit. It remains to be seen, though, whether any money will be spent to offer Carrick further depth for the final few months of the campaign.
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Man United would have to fend off interest from elsewhere in Meite, with Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal also admirers of the French youth international. Should a deal be completed, it would be regarded as an exciting coup for the Red Devils and one to watch in the future.