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sports22h ago
Man Utd braced for transfer battle as Barcelona step up interest in wonderkid
Metro.co.uk and 1 more
- Barcelona has intensified its long-standing interest in Manchester United's 15-year-old JJ Gabriel, aiming to lure him to La Masia with ongoing pursuit and recent access to their facilities.
- Gabriel's prolific form—10 goals in 10 Under-18 games—has kept Barcelona and other top clubs watching his development closely this season.
- The England Under-16 international holds an Irish passport, which could ease a future move to Europe due to EU access rules.
- Gabriel could follow Marcus Rashford’s trajectory, with Barcelona as a potential next step if a move materializes abroad.
- United has shown confidence in retaining Gabriel, with Jason Wilcox previously engaging the family to chart a clear development path at the club.
- Gabriel has trained with Manchester United's first team amid ongoing transfer talk, underscoring his rapid ascent and exposure to senior levels.
- Barcelona’s pursuit is framed as part of a two-year long interest, with EU passport status potentially facilitating a future European transfer.
- The report notes Gabriel’s EU eligibility and age as factors that could influence a transfer before he turns 16, aligning with Barca’s long-term scouting.
- Rashford’s example is cited as a benchmark for how a United academy talent could transition to a European powerhouse, should a move occur.
- The Daily Star piece reiterates Gabriel’s status as a standout talent within United’s academy and a potential future first-team pathway.
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