Bayern want “Kid Messi” – Bayern battle for Manchester United talent

On Thursday, October 6, the 16‑year‑old JJ Gabriel celebrated his birthday in Manchester, while a shot captured by Crystal Pix showed the scene and reports from Munich indicated that FC Bayern is already actively courting the teenager known as "Kid Messi".

Impressive Statistics

At the age of fifteen, Gabriel scored an impressive twenty‑six goals and three assists for the Red Devils in the U‑18 Premier League. For Manchester United's U‑21 side, he recorded two goals and two assists in each of two games. In his most recent appearance in the UEFA Youth League against Sabah FK, he netted a hat‑trick. His YouTube clips, which he began publishing at the age of eight, earned him the nickname "Kid Messi".

Since the summer, he has been training regularly with Manchester United's first‑team players. He wants to leave the club; in September he asked his agents to terminate his youth registration. However, Manchester United rejected the request, meaning a move after his 16th birthday would be easier.

Battle for the Transfer

Real Madrid and Barcelona are seen as clear favorites, but Paris Saint‑Germain and FC Bayern have also expressed interest. Dortmund, Leipzig and Leverkusen, who initially also showed interest, have stopped courting the player. Bayern officials have already met with the player's entourage, and further talks are scheduled for Monday.

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For Bayern, only a training compensation would be due to Manchester United, because Gabriel does not yet have a professional contract. Nevertheless, the 16‑year‑old player demands a high salary and a signing bonus, creating financial hurdles.

Big Offers and Legal Questions

Barcelona and Real Madrid are said to be preparing an “XXL‑package” each of salary, bonuses and signing money. Barcelona sporting director Deco, however, emphasized that the club officially has no interest in the player. A possible January departure is being discussed, with a free transfer being considered, provided the legal framework is suitable.

Gabriel could soon obtain a Cypriot passport, which would grant him EU citizenship and could ease transfer conditions. After Brexit, British players are considered non‑EU nationals, meaning transfers of minors are heavily regulated. An EU passport could lift the restrictions for under‑16 players from England, but the exact legal consequences remain unclear.

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Manchester United now faces growing pressure, as Gabriel is said to have stopped training with the youth team. The club must decide whether to keep the young striker or release him before the potential January transfer is realized.