Manchester United are considering stepping up their interest in Rennes striker Mohamed Kader Meite, holding talks with the player's representatives, according to journalist Ed Aarons.
It's been a slow start to the January transfer window for the Red Devils, who are yet to bring in any reinforcements since the market opened earlier this month. In the early days of January, United's focus was on their managerial situation, with Ruben Amorim sacked and Michael Carrick brought in as interim boss.
It's been an inconsistent start to the season for the Manchester club, but they've shown signs of heading in the right direction under Carrick. United beat rivals Manchester City in Carrick's first game in charge, before an impressive 3-2 victory over Arsenal away from home last time out.
Man Utd Ready to Step Up Striker Bid
Michael Carrick
According to journalist Aarons, United are considering stepping up their interest in Rennes striker Meite, after holding talks with their representatives. The 18-year-old star could cost in the region of €30m (£26m), but he also has interest from Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal.
Meite, described as 'elite' by talent scout Jacek Kulig, has burst onto the scene this season, already playing regularly for Rennes despite his age. Although the French youngster has started just six Ligue 1 games, Meita has played 17 times in Ligue 1 this season, scoring three times while providing two assists.
Whether he'd be a regular for United if he made the move to Old Trafford remains to be seen, but he's likely to be a signing for the future.
INEOS Focused on Young Talent for Man Utd
Sir Jim Ratcliffe
Since taking over the Manchester club, INEOS have focused a large portion of their recruitment on signing young talent from around the world. Leny Yoro, Ayden Heaven, Diego Leon, and Chido Obi are among those to have arrived through the door, with United looking for players with high potential for the future.
The Red Devils undoubtedly need players who are going to make an immediate impact, but bringing in players with high sell-on value who can either be sold for profit or be utilised by the senior squad is hugely beneficial in the long run.