Real Madrid dealt blow as teenage target prefers Barcelona move – report

Real Madrid dealt blow as teenage target prefers Barcelona move – report The future of JJ Gabriel has been a major topic of discussion in recent weeks, with the 16-year-old prodigy all set to leave Manchester United. A number of top clubs across Europe have shown an interest in the youngster’s interest, including Real Madrid. However, Los Blancos are facing stiff competition from bitter rivals FC Barcelona, while both Bayern Munich and PSG are also keeping an eye on the English prodigy. Recent reports, though, had suggested that Real Madrid were growing confident about signing Gabriel in the upcoming January transfer window. Gabriel leaning towards Barcelona But now, according to journalist Jose Alvarez on El Chiringuito TV , while Gabriel intends to move to Spain when he leaves Manchester United, he currently prefers a transfer to Barcelona over Real Madrid. Leaning towards Barcelona? (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images) His intention of moving to Spain rules out the possibility of a move to either Bayern Munich or PSG, but as things stand, the 16-year-old gem seems to be leaning towards a move to Barça. This development comes on the back of multiple sources claiming that Real Madrid were increasingly convinced about signing the Manchester United starlet . The Spanish capital club have been in constant contact with the youngster’s camp, while they have also kept the Red Devils updated about the situation. It had given way to confidence within the club about signing the teenage prodigy, but the aforementioned report now claims that Gabriel wants to join Barcelona. Another Rodri episode? Rodri chose Barcelona over Real Madrid. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) Back in the summer transfer window, Real Madrid found themselves in a similar situation with Spain captain and World Cup winner Rodri. Talks had been progressing with the player and Manchester City over a move, but the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner then decided to sign for Barcelona, where he is now excelling. If not alert, Real Madrid could experience a repeat of that scenario with Gabriel as well. As such, the Merengues would do well to speed up negotiations and lock down the transfer of the 16-year-old gem at the earliest. With the January transfer window not very far away, it remains to be seen how this transfer saga ends.