Barcelona are reportedly looking to capitalise on the uncertainty surrounding Manchester United wonderkid JJ Gabriel, according to transfer reporter Ben Jacobs.
The 15-year-old forward, regarded as one of the most talented attacking prospects in European youth football, has formally told United he wants to leave.
Gabriel was in line for a potential senior debut in Wednesday’s League Cup tie against Brighton & Hove Albion after netting a hat-trick against Sabah in the UEFA Youth League.
Barcelona have closely monitored Gabriel’s progress at United, where he won the prestigious Jimmy Murphy Young Player of the Year award after starring at youth level.
However, Barcelona face significant competition from Chelsea, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich.
Losing Gabriel would be a major blow to United’s youth development strategy.
The club had mapped out a pathway for the youngster, integrating him into senior training to prepare for a first-team breakthrough.
United reportedly remain hopeful talks can resolve the situation, with Premier League regulations requiring mutual agreement between the club, player and parents to terminate youth registrations.
With Gabriel not turning 16 until October, he remains ineligible to sign a scholarship or professional contract.
This gives interested clubs, including Barcelona, the chance to present their proposals directly to his representatives.
What was meant to be a milestone week for the teenager has instead turned into a high-profile transfer saga involving one of England’s brightest young talents.
