Manchester United could be looking at a £26million (€30m) bill to secure the services of Stade Rennais striker Mohamed Kader Meite in the January transfer window, as per French reports. The 18-year-old Meite has quickly risen to prominence in Europe following his breakout season in Ligue 1.

The young forward has netted three goals in 19 appearances across all competitions this term, building on his impressive youth record of 14 goals in 32 matches. French publication Quest-France has reported that the Red Devils have shown interest in the teenage sensation. This follows Foot Mercato's suggestion that United are planning to thwart Al-Hilal's bid for the France Under-21 international.

However, the French report indicates that United's interest is 'notable' and a move could be initiated before the January window closes. It's understood, though, that a departure will only be approved if a bid of £26m is tabled.

United's attacking line-up is already well-furnished following their summer spending spree under Ruben Amorim. Over £200m was invested to bring in Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko, with the first two making an immediate impact.

Both players found the back of the net in Sunday's 3-2 victory over Arsenal, marking two wins from two for Michael Carrick. Since his switch from Wolves, Cunha has scored five Premier League goals, while Mbeumo, with nine goals to his name, is currently United's leading scorer in the league.

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Sesko has found the back of the net four times himself, with his opening brace arriving in quick succession earlier this campaign and the remaining two goals coming during the 2-2 stalemate against Burnley earlier this month. The 22-year-old has settled into English football impressively, though Carrick has favoured Mbeumo in his opening two matches.

The other striker in the United ranks is Joshua Zirkzee. The Dutch international appeared headed for a winter departure after finding minutes hard to come by under Amorim, but a switch to Roma fell through following the Portuguese manager's dismissal.

Juventus, Aston Villa and Tottenham have all emerged as possible destinations in the closing days of the January transfer window. Nevertheless, an exit only appears feasible if United secure another forward.

Meite represents the first centre-forward to be associated with a switch to Old Trafford since Jean-Philippe Mateta. The Crystal Palace striker has asked to depart the club this window, with Nottingham Forest and Juventus chasing his signature.

During the summer, Mateta was amongst the strikers reportedly on United's radar before Sesko arrived. Antoine Semenyo, Lassine Sinayoko and Dusan Vlahovic have also been referenced previously as prospective targets. United aren't anticipated to conduct any significant business this month, with the emphasis on strengthening their midfield during the summer ahead of next season.