In a strategic move to strengthen its ranks with the most prominent young international talents, Al-Hilal Saudi Club announced the official signing of French striker Mohamed Kader Meite, coming from French club Stade Rennais, during the current winter transfer period.
Details of the contract and the Al-Hilal deal
The Riyadh-based club revealed in an official statement on its website and digital platforms that the board of directors of Al-Hilal Club Company has successfully completed all the necessary procedures to sign the contract for the transfer of the promising striker to the ranks of "Al-Za'eem" (The Boss). The contract between the two parties extends for three and a half years, meaning the player will remain in the blue jersey until mid-2029, in a deal that reflects the long-term planning of the club's management.
Who is Muhammad Qadir Miti?
Eighteen-year-old Mohamed Kader Meiti is one of the rising stars of French football. He progressed through the youth ranks at Stade Rennais, a club renowned worldwide for its outstanding academy that has produced many top European players. Meiti's brilliance hasn't been limited to his club; he has also been a key player for the French national teams, representing France at the under-16, under-17, under-19, and under-21 levels, demonstrating his exceptional talent.
The importance of the deal and its strategic context
This deal comes amidst a qualitative shift in Saudi football, and Al-Hilal in particular, where the focus is no longer solely on attracting seasoned international stars, but has expanded to include poaching young talents from major European leagues. Stade Rennais is known as a "talent factory" in Europe, having produced players like Ousmane Dembélé, Eduardo Camavinga, and Mathis Thil, making the signing of Meite a smart sporting and economic investment for Al-Hilal, ensuring the future of their attack for years to come.
Player statistics and market value
In terms of numbers and statistics, Meiti has proven his worth with Rennes' first team despite his young age. He has participated in 19 matches across all competitions this season, contributing to five goals (scoring three and assisting two), impressive figures for an 18-year-old in one of Europe's top five leagues.
According to the global football economics website Transfermarkt, the market value of the young French striker is estimated at around 10 million euros, a figure that is likely to increase significantly with his expected development with the Asian and Saudi League champions.
