Barcelona intensify contacts with Real Madrid youth target through agent meet – report | OneFootball

Real Madrid have been handed fresh competition in the race for Manchester United wonderkid JJ Gabriel, with Barcelona stepping up their efforts to secure one of Europe’s most highly rated young talents.

Spanish outlet SPORT claims Barcelona sporting director Deco has intensified contact with Gabriel’s agent Ali Barat in recent days, with the player and his family having visited Catalonia last week. 

The outlet adds that Deco also met Barat on Saturday as both clubs continue to present their respective projects to the teenager.

Real Madrid still hold financial advantage

The Manchester United talent is not yet 16, but the level of interest surrounding him has made his next move a major transfer story. 

He turns 16 on October 6, with Real Madrid and Barcelona both offering a pathway that could eventually lead to first-team football.

For Real Madrid, the financial side of the proposal is believed to be considerably more attractive than Barcelona’s. 

Barcelona have intensified their efforts to sign JJ Gabriel. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)

Reports have consistently pointed to a higher offer from Los Blancos, giving them a significant weapon in the negotiations.

Real Madrid also have a reason to be particularly determined. After Rodri chose Barcelona despite interest from the Spanish capital, the club do not want another highly rated young player to slip away to their biggest domestic rival.

Gabriel’s case is different, though, as the decision will not simply come down to money, with his sporting development and personal preference also expected to carry considerable weight.

Barcelona find another route into the battle

Deco’s latest meeting with Barat shows that Barça are not prepared to concede the race simply because Real Madrid can offer more financially.

Barcelona are pitching a project in which Gabriel could progress rapidly towards the first team, something Real Madrid are also understood to have offered. 

The Catalans therefore need to convince the youngster that their sporting pathway can outweigh the financial difference.

Real Madrid remain strong in the race for the Manchester United talent. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)

Barat’s relationship with both clubs makes the situation even more confusing. 

He is set to become Raphinha’s new adviser at a time when the Brazilian is negotiating a contract renewal with Barcelona, strengthening his professional ties with Deco.

At the same time, Barat has maintained strong connections with Madrid and was recently seen in the Bernabéu’s VIP area during Denzel Dumfries’ presentation.

For Real Madrid, the equation is therefore straightforward but not settled: they have the stronger financial proposal, while Barcelona are attempting to win Gabriel over through their sporting project and existing relationship with his representative. 

The final decision is expected within days.