Bayern Munich step up pursuit of Man United teenage prodigy also wanted by Barcelona

Bayern Munich step up pursuit of Man United teenage prodigy also wanted by Barcelona JJ Gabriel’s future is entering a decisive phase. The Manchester United youngster turned 16 on Tuesday and is now able to sign a professional contract with a European club. As already reported, FC Barcelona, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and PSG remain attentive to the situation as they are eager to land the teenage prodigy, potentially as early as January 2027. Earlier today, reports suggested that Gabriel was dead set on a move to Barça , giving the Catalans an edge in the race. Bayern Munich take a step forward However, now, according to The Times (h/t SPORT ), Bayern have now taken a significant step forward and have met with Gabriel’s representatives. Manager Vincent Kompany is a big admirer of the player and the German club are looking to convince him with a project centred on his development and the possibility of moving towards the first team quickly. Vincent Kompany an admirer of Gabriel. (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images) However, the Bavarians are not currently prepared to meet the financial demands being made by Gabriel’s camp. Salary demands complicate the race The request for a seven-figure salary, meaning at least €1 million per year, is being seen as a major hurdle in the race for one of the most sought-after young players in English football. Borussia Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen had also shown interest, but both clubs are understood to have lost ground because of the financial demands involved in the deal. Barcelona, meanwhile, remain in contention. The Catalan club retain strong interest in Gabriel, while Real Madrid are also monitoring the situation. Both clubs would be ready to offer the 16-year-old gem a sizeable salary in order to secure his services. For now, Gabriel and his family have yet to make a decision and are in no rush to do so. Manchester United still want to keep Gabriel Despite how the situation has unfolded, Manchester United are trying to prevent Gabriel from leaving. Who will JJ Gabriel sign for? (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images) The youngster remains registered with the English club despite him and his family formally requesting a departure after disagreements over the role he would have with the first team. The Red Devils are even considering legal action if he ultimately joins another European club. The situation has nevertheless changed considerably. Bayern have now made their move and are attempting to convince Gabriel with an attractive sporting project, while Barcelona remain attentive to developments. The transfer fee itself could be manageable given Gabriel’s age and status as a youth player. The main obstacle is the contract being requested by his representatives, with the seven-figure salary potentially becoming the factor that determines where the teenager continues his career.