Real Madrid and Barcelona vie for 'Kid Messi' United star seeks exit
Real Madrid and Barcelona are locked in a race to sign JJ Gabriel, the 15‑year‑old attacker dubbed “Kid Messi”, after he formally asked Manchester United to cancel his registration and become a free agent. The move has ignited a scramble among Europe’s elite clubs.
Contractual hurdles and eligibility
Gabriel, who has been at Manchester United since the age of eleven, sent a formal notification with his representatives demanding an immediate release. United have signalled they intend to keep him and are not prepared to grant the request without a settlement.
Because he is only 15, any early termination requires the consent of United, the player and his guardians; otherwise the matter could be taken to the Premier League for a ruling. Gabriel will turn 16 on 6 October and, holding an Irish passport, will be able to move to any European Union club at that age. In England he may sign a scholarship contract at 16, while a professional deal is only permitted from 17.
Madrid‑Barcelona rivalry intensifies
The Athletic reported that both Spanish giants have placed Gabriel on their watch‑lists, with noting the clubs’ heightened interest on Tuesday. Real Madrid, still smarting from losing Rodri to Barcelona last summer, have stepped up their efforts to outbid their rivals, and Mourinho’s side is being described as a “real force” in the chase.
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Barcelona’s pursuit could be under threat from Madrid’s push, yet the Catalan club has not ruled out a late bid, banking on La Masia’s reputation as a launchpad for young talent.
Gabriel’s on‑field résumé includes winning United’s Jimmy Murphy award after netting more than 20 goals for the under‑18 side and scoring a hat‑trick in a 5‑0 Youth League victory over Sabah. He has also trained with the first team and featured in a pre‑season friendly against Atlético Madrid.
United had planned to include him in the squad for the League Cup tie against Brighton on Wednesday, but his request means he is unlikely to feature. The club’s recent 2 x 2 draw with Everton highlights the busy schedule United are juggling.
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Beyond Madrid and Barcelona, other European powerhouses are monitoring the situation. Manchester City, Arsenal, Bayern Munich and Chelsea have all been linked with the teenage prodigy, underscoring the breadth of interest in the Maior jewel of United’s academy.