According to a report by Barca Universal on Saturday October 17, 2026, Barcelona have reportedly submitted an official contract proposal to Manchester United youngster JJ Gabriel, offering the 16-year-old a three-year deal worth approximately €2 million in salary, plus bonuses.

However, Real Madrid remain favourites to secure the highly rated forward, leaving the Catalan club facing a difficult battle to convince him to join their project.

According to SPORT, Gabriel is currently training in Castelldefels, near Barcelona, while considering his future. His family and representative are expected to announce his decision soon, with the competition between Spain’s two biggest clubs approaching a crucial stage.

Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich have also expressed interest in the young English talent. Nevertheless, Barcelona and Real Madrid are understood to be leading the pursuit.

Barcelona’s proposal follows weeks of speculation surrounding the teenager’s next move. However, sporting director Deco previously denied that the club were negotiating to sign him.

Barcelona explained that Gabriel’s representative, Ali Barat, had presented the youngster’s situation during a European tour to assess interest from leading clubs. The reported formal offer now suggests that the Catalans could be making a serious attempt to secure his services.

Real Madrid, meanwhile, are considered the frontrunners after reportedly agreeing to the financial and sporting conditions presented by Gabriel’s representatives.

The overall cost of Madrid’s proposed deal is estimated at €10 million. That figure reportedly covers his three-year contract, family-related bonuses, agent fees and performance-based incentives.

Gabriel’s representatives have previously indicated a preference for Barcelona, provided the club meets the family’s minimum financial and sporting requirements. This could give the Catalans an opportunity to challenge Madrid despite the latter’s current advantage.

Barcelona’s offer now adds another dimension to the contest, although Gabriel’s final decision will depend on several factors. With his family expected to reveal his destination soon, both clubs face a decisive period in their efforts to secure one of Manchester United’s most promising young talents.