Al-Hilal have completed the signing of Rennes striker Mohamed Kader Meite for a reported £25.9m, making him the second-most expensive non-Premier League acquisition of this transfer window. The 18-year-old has signed a three-and-a-half-year deal, fending off interest from several Premier League clubs.

Manchester United were reportedly among the clubs monitoring Meite before Al-Hilal's aggressive bid secured his services. The move signals Saudi football's growing ambition to invest in emerging talent. Meite, who made 32 appearances for Rennes, scored five goals and provided two assists.

Despite leaving France, experts believe Meite's Premier League future remains likely. French football pundit Julien Laurens described him as a "modern number nine" with pace, strength, and technical ability. Liverpool are also closing in on another Rennes deal, set to sign defender Jeremy Jacquet for £55m.