Real Madrid leads the chase for JJ Gabriel, Manchester United youngster

The young striker JJ Gabriel, of Manchester United U21 (Man Utd), has reached a preliminary verbal agreement to sign for Real Madrid, according to Reporter Florian Plettenberg, hoping to finalize the move in the January transfer window. The news was confirmed on August 31, 2026.

On August 31, 2026, in Leigh, England, JJ Gabriel took part in the Premier League 2 match between Manchester United U21 and Leicester City U21, held at Leigh Sports Village.

After informing Manchester United that he wishes to leave, Gabriel has been linked with several elite clubs, including Barcelona.

It is said that the player is being considered to join the Bernabeu, which has intensified rumors about his future.

Deco dismisses Barcelona's interest

Barcelona's sporting director, Deco, has downplayed his club's interest in Gabriel, although the press continues to link him with the Catalans.

Diario Sport reports that, although a move to Real Madrid looks likely, Gabriel would keep Barcelona as a priority if they offered to finalize his signing.

According to Gabriel himself, he prefers Barcelona's sporting project, but the main obstacle is financial, as the Catalan club cannot match his high wage demands, whereas Real Madrid appears willing to do so.

To date, nothing has been officially signed, so the agreement remains verbal and pending formalisation.