JJ Gabriel turns 16, sparking a Barça, Real Madrid, PSG and Bayern battle

Manchester United’s rising star can now sign his first professional contract, and his future is once again up in the air

JJ Gabriel turned 16 on October 6, opening a new chapter in the future of one of Manchester United’s brightest academy prospects. The forward, who had already been linked with Barcelona, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, can now sign his first professional contract.

The situation has attracted particular interest after his family asked Manchester United to facilitate a possible departure. Since then, the young footballer’s future has become one of the most closely followed stories surrounding the English club’s academy.

Barcelona and Real Madrid prepare their offers

JJ Gabriel had previously expressed interest in playing for Barcelona. However, the Catalan club had cooled that possibility through comments from Deco, who ambiguously questioned their interest in a player of his profile.

Now that the player is eligible to sign a professional contract, the situation could change.

Transfer journalist Florian Plettenberg reports that JJ Gabriel is believed to be waiting to obtain a Cypriot passport, which could pave the way for him to join as a free agent during the winter transfer window.

According to this report, Barcelona and Real Madrid are said to be ready to make him substantial financial offers, including salary, bonuses and a signing-on fee.

PSG also enters the race

The competition for the young forward would not be limited to the two Spanish giants. Paris Saint-Germain has reportedly also shown interest and is looking to persuade the footballer to choose the Parisian club’s project.

JJ Gabriel’s connection with Barcelona has further fuelled the rumours. The player spent some time training in the city, specifically at the British School facilities in Castelldefels, before returning to England.

That, however, does not mean there is an agreement with the Catalan club.

Manchester United still has a chance to keep him

Despite interest from several European clubs, JJ Gabriel could still sign his first professional contract with Manchester United.

First-team manager Michael Carrick has called for less pressure on the footballer and for his development to be respected.

Meanwhile, reports in England suggest that United is considering possible legal action against individuals or organisations involved in any potential departure, in an attempt to protect its interests.

For now, JJ Gabriel’s 16th birthday does not settle his future, but it does mark a turning point. Barcelona, Real Madrid and PSG are emerging as possible destinations, while Manchester United is still trying to convince one of its brightest prospects to stay at Old Trafford.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.