Barcelona refuse to enter bidding war with Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain for Manchester United youngster

Paris Saint-Germain have joined Real Madrid in the race to sign Manchester United prospect JJ Gabriel, who recently turned 16, increasing the pressure on Barcelona as they attempt to secure a deal for the highly rated forward.

According to Catalan newspaper Sport, both Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid have made progress in their discussions with the player’s representatives and close advisers.

Paris Saint-Germain are seeking to take advantage of uncertainty surrounding Gabriel’s future at Old Trafford by offering an attractive sporting plan and financial package. Real Madrid are also working to strengthen their position in the competition for the teenager.

Barcelona’s main advantage is understood to be Gabriel’s sporting preference. The player is said to feel a particular attraction to the Catalan club and its footballing philosophy, while also showing interest in a project that offers young players opportunities to develop.

That preference, however, does not mean a move to Barcelona is close to being finalised. Financial considerations are expected to play a significant role in determining the outcome of the transfer.

Barcelona recognise Gabriel’s considerable potential but do not want to become involved in a financial bidding war. The club are also unwilling to pay an excessive fee for a player who has yet to make an official first-team appearance for Manchester United.

The Catalan club’s position is that any agreement must fit both its financial criteria and its sporting policy. Barcelona are therefore relying on the appeal of their footballing project rather than attempting to match every offer made by their rivals.

Manchester United still retain the player’s rights and have not abandoned efforts to resolve his situation. The club’s continued involvement means Gabriel’s future remains unsettled as the three interested parties pursue the deal.

Sport added that Barcelona are facing increasingly strong competition from Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid, whose financial proposals could drive up the value of the transfer. Barcelona, meanwhile, are continuing to place their faith in the attraction of their sporting project.