Barcelona and Real Madrid step up interest as Man Utd ace considers Spain move
Manchester United teenager JJ Gabriel appears increasingly likely to leave Old Trafford, with the highly rated youngster reportedly having reached an important agreement on his preferred next step.
According to SPORT, Gabriel and his representatives have reached a first major agreement that moving to Spain would represent the best option for his development. Barcelona are believed to hold particular appeal for the 15-year-old, although Real Madrid remain firmly involved in the race.
JJ Gabriel has Spain move in mind
Gabriel has attracted considerable attention across Europe during his rapid rise at Manchester United, and losing him is a major concern for the Premier League club. Barcelona, Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich are among the sides monitoring his situation.
The teenager is understood to have a strong preference for Barcelona, having previously shown an affinity for the Catalan club. However, that does not necessarily mean a move to Camp Nou has been finalised, with Real Madrid continuing to pursue their own plans for the youngster.
Manchester United face difficult decision on Gabriel
JJ Gabriel of Manchester United celebrates after scoring their first goal during the FA Youth Cup Semi Final match between Manchester United and Crystal Palace at Old Trafford on April 17, 2026 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
United have already rejected Gabriel’s request to have his registration cancelled, meaning the club are not prepared to simply allow him to walk away. The youngster could still move abroad after turning 16 on October 6, with his Irish passport potentially allowing him to qualify for the relevant FIFA exception.
The situation remains complicated, with United still hoping to change Gabriel’s mind while Spanish heavyweights continue to explore a potential deal.
Barcelona have held talks with Gabriel’s camp, while Real Madrid have also maintained their interest. Both clubs are understood to have considered development pathways that could see the youngster initially feature for their respective reserve sides before progressing towards first-team football.
For now, Gabriel’s future remains unresolved, but the latest developments suggest Manchester United face a major battle to keep one of their most highly regarded academy prospects.
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