Sevilla is reportedly showing interest in securing the services of Manchester United midfielder Hannibal Mejbri, although the Red Devils are keen on retaining the player beyond the upcoming summer.
The 20-year-old has integrated into United’s first-team squad in the early months of the 2023-24 season, making appearances in two league matches, including a start in the 1-0 victory against Burnley in late September.
Hannibal had spent the previous season on loan at Birmingham City in the Championship to gain valuable senior football experience, amassing 38 appearances for the club in the second tier.
Since making his debut for Tunisia in May 2021, the former French youth international has featured in 26 matches for the North African nation, and he was part of the national squad for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
According to information from Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, as reported by CaughtOffside, Hannibal has attracted attention from a prominent La Liga club in recent months. The report suggests that Sevilla, the current Europa League champions, have been monitoring the midfielder’s progress since the summer and are looking to secure his services in 2024.
Despite finishing 12th in the Premier League last season, Sevilla’s continental success allowed them to qualify for the group stages of this season’s Champions League, where they are competing against Arsenal, PSV Eindhoven, and Lens.
Manchester United is reportedly pleased with Hannibal’s development as he continues to acclimate to the elite level of Premier League football. The club is said to be planning contract discussions with the Tunisian, aiming to secure his long-term future with the 20-time English champions.
Hannibal’s current contract with the club expires at the end of the season. However, both parties are interested in agreeing on a new contract, and it’s been previously reported that Manchester United is ready to trigger the extension of Hannibal’s contract, although an official announcement is pending.
Sevilla, one of the potential suitors, will be looking to secure a place in the top two of their Champions League group as they face Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal at Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on Tuesday night.
Manchester United faces a significant challenge in their quest to advance to the knockout stages of the UEFA’s premier club competition. The Red Devils are set to host Danish side Copenhagen at Old Trafford in their upcoming fixture.