The emerging trend of Premier League clubs actively seeking out international young talents for their academies may see a shift, as the financial muscle of English top-flight teams allows them to maintain a bench filled with experienced players. On the contrary, leagues like La Liga present a more promising pathway to first-team action for young prospects.
This dynamic is exemplified by the situation surrounding Hannibal Mejbri, the 20-year-old midfielder who has earned 27 international caps for Tunisia. With his current Manchester United contract set to expire in the summer of 2024, discussions surrounding an extension are anticipated in the forthcoming weeks.
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In his Daily Briefing column for Caught Offside, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has shed light on this matter, stating, “United have an option to extend until June 2025 so there’s no alert, but as I mentioned in September the club is planning to offer him new long term deal to be discussed soon. Sevilla have been monitoring him since July but United are very happy with him.”
Although Manchester United holds an advantageous position, courtesy of their extension option with Mejbri, it’s probable they’ll negotiate a prolonged agreement. Yet, the unpredictable nature of the Premier League means if contract discussions don’t progress positively, Sevilla could be ready to swoop in.
This season, Mejbri has stepped onto the pitch five times for the Red Devils, with two starts totaling 322 minutes of play. His highlight moment came when he netted his debut goal during a match against Brighton and Hove Albion, which concluded 3-1 in Brighton’s favor. One possible hurdle in the forthcoming contract talks could be the assurance of more regular playing time for the young talent.
