Real Madrid are reportedly in a strong position to sign Manchester United prospect JJ Gabriel, with Barcelona potentially withdrawing from the race for the highly rated young forward.

According to a report by Madrid Universal on Saturday, October 17, 2026, the Spanish giants have moved ahead of their rivals in the pursuit of the 16-year-old, whose future at Old Trafford has become increasingly uncertain.

Gabriel has attracted interest from several prominent European clubs following reports that he asked Manchester United to cancel his registration last month. His subsequent visit to Spain further fuelled speculation that he could be preparing to leave the Premier League club.

Real Madrid are now reportedly leading the competition for his signature, while Barcelona are said to have developed reservations about pursuing the teenager. The report claims that Barcelona sporting director Deco is reluctant to proceed with a deal, despite Gabriel reportedly being open to joining the Catalan club if certain sporting and financial requirements are satisfied.

In contrast, Real Madrid are understood to have accepted the conditions presented by Gabriel and his representatives. The LaLiga giants are also reportedly willing to commit a package worth around €10 million, covering a three-year contract, bonuses and performance-related incentives.

However, neither the reported agreement nor the proposed financial package has been officially confirmed, leaving the youngster’s future unresolved.

Manchester United could face a difficult task retaining Gabriel, with former Everton chief executive Keith Wyness expressing doubts about the club’s chances of keeping the academy prospect.

Speaking to Football Insider, Wyness suggested that Real Madrid have the advantage in the transfer battle, estimating that United have only a 30 per cent chance of convincing the youngster to stay.

“I think it’s about a 30 per cent chance of him staying put and 70 per cent going to Real Madrid,” Wyness said.

The former football executive also raised concerns about United’s handling of Gabriel’s development, suggesting that the club may not have provided a sufficiently clear pathway to senior football for the player and his family.

Wyness further questioned whether the possibility of legal action by Manchester United would help resolve the situation, warning that such a response could prove counterproductive.

For United, losing Gabriel would represent a setback in their efforts to develop promising young talent. The teenager’s potential has attracted considerable attention, and his departure could allow Real Madrid to strengthen their youth ranks with another highly regarded prospect.

With Barcelona reportedly reconsidering their position and Real Madrid prepared to meet the demands of Gabriel’s representatives, the Spanish club appears to have gained an advantage. Nevertheless, until an agreement is officially announced, Manchester United’s chances of retaining the youngster cannot be completely ruled out.