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

Barcelona have also stepped away because they are unwilling to meet the financial demands involved in signing the 16-year-old forward.

According to reports, Madrid have become the youngster’s preferred destination following the setbacks suffered by their European rivals. However, a formal agreement has not yet been announced, meaning the transfer is not complete.

Gabriel has attracted attention from leading clubs across Europe after indicating that he wants to leave Manchester United. His representatives have held discussions with potential destinations as they consider the best environment for his development.

PSG recently made another attempt to convince the teenager by improving the financial terms and sporting project presented to his camp. Their proposal was nevertheless rejected, with Gabriel reportedly favouring Spanish football instead of a move to Ligue 1.

Bayern Munich have also dropped out of the race. Their withdrawal has left Real Madrid in a stronger position to secure the youngster’s signature. The Spanish giants are reportedly prepared to satisfy the financial conditions, with the total package expected to exceed €10 million over the next three seasons.

Barcelona had previously considered bringing Gabriel to Catalonia. The club held contacts involving his representative, Ali Barat, as part of its assessment. However, the financial requirements became a major obstacle.

The Catalan side have decided that matching the sums being discussed by Madrid and PSG would not represent a sensible investment. Barcelona are also understood to have concerns about the uncertainty surrounding Gabriel’s immediate route into senior football.

Consequently, Madrid are now regarded as favourites to land the highly rated 16-year-old, while Barcelona appear unlikely to revive their interest.