Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid are pursuing Manchester United youth player JJ Gabriel, complicating Barcelona's hopes of concluding a deal. Gabriel recently turned 16, while Manchester United still hold his rights and have not given up on settling his situation.
PSG and Madrid step up interest
Paris Saint-Germain have entered the race for JJ Gabriel. According to Sport, PSG have opened talks with Gabriel's representatives. Real Madrid are also intensifying their pursuit of the player.
Sport reports progress in contacts
According to Sport, both PSG and Real Madrid are making progress in their contacts with Gabriel's circle. Sport also said PSG want to capitalise on the uncertainty surrounding Gabriel's future at Old Trafford, offering an attractive sporting project and financial package.
Barcelona's position
Barcelona hope to conclude a deal for Gabriel. The club hold that Gabriel feels a particular pull towards the Catalan club and its playing philosophy, and is drawn to a project that gives young talents the chance to develop.
Financial limits remain in place
Barcelona do not consider a move for Gabriel settled, and money remains an influential factor in his situation. Barcelona rate Gabriel's potential highly, but will not enter a bidding war or pay inflated sums for a player who has yet to feature officially for Manchester United's first team. Barcelona insist any deal for Gabriel must fit their economic and sporting criteria. Sport said Barcelona face mounting competition from PSG and Real Madrid, who could drive up the financial value of the deal, while Barcelona are relying on the appeal of their sporting project.