According to a report by Barca Universal on Saturday, October 31, 2026, Real Madrid are reportedly leading the race to sign Manchester United youngster JJ Gabriel after Paris Saint-Germain had their latest offer rejected and Bayern Munich withdrew from the competition.

Barcelona have also ended their pursuit of the 16-year-old forward because they are unwilling to meet the financial demands involved in securing his signature.

Reports suggest that Madrid have emerged as Gabriel's preferred destination following the setbacks suffered by their European rivals. However, no formal agreement has been announced, meaning the transfer is yet to be completed.

Gabriel has attracted interest from several major European clubs after indicating his desire to leave Manchester United. His representatives have held discussions with interested teams as they assess the best environment for his continued development.

PSG recently made another attempt to secure the teenager's commitment by improving the financial package and sporting project presented to his representatives. However, the proposal was rejected, with Gabriel reportedly favouring a move to Spanish football rather than joining the French club in Ligue 1.

Bayern Munich have also withdrawn from the race, leaving Real Madrid in a stronger position to complete the signing.

The Spanish giants are reportedly willing to meet the financial conditions, with the overall package expected to exceed €10 million over the next three seasons.

Barcelona had previously explored the possibility of bringing Gabriel to Catalonia and held discussions involving his representative, Ali Barat, as part of their assessment of the deal.

However, the financial demands eventually became a major obstacle for the Catalan club. Barcelona reportedly believe that matching the figures being discussed by Madrid and PSG would not represent a sensible investment.

The club are also understood to have concerns about the uncertainty surrounding Gabriel's immediate pathway into the senior team.

As a result, Real Madrid are now considered favourites to sign the highly rated 16-year-old, while Barcelona appear unlikely to return to the negotiations.