Barcelona sporting director Deco has denied interest in Manchester United youngster JJ Gabriel, who has asked to leave the club. The 15-year-old has informed United of his desire to depart, with his family reportedly believing his development would be better served elsewhere.
Deco responds to transfer links
Deco addressed reports linking Barcelona with Gabriel, saying the Spanish club are not interested in any player in his situation. "There's nothing to say about this boy, it's normal we always have players linked with us," Deco told journalist Ben Jacobs. "There's a huge market for that, even when they [players] are young."
"We are not interested in any player in his situation. I am not sure what's happening, and if he's still a Manchester United player. We are not involved in that," he added. "First of all, we need to understand how the situation is before we try to do something. And to speak about young, teenage players, it is not our business."
Gabriel's situation at United
Gabriel has impressed for United's academy sides and was integrated into Michael Carrick's first-team setup during pre-season, though he is yet to make his senior debut. He had been planned to make his first-team bow against Brighton in the Carabao Cup, but was left out of the squad following his request to leave.
United have less than two weeks to find a resolution before he turns 16 on October 6, when he becomes eligible to be legally represented by an agent. The attacker will also be able to join a foreign club using his Irish passport.
European interest and contract concerns
Reports from Spain claimed Gabriel could be set for a move across Europe, with Barcelona and Real Madrid among the clubs said to be interested. It was also claimed Gabriel and his representatives had travelled to Spain, visiting both Madrid and Barcelona, with the youngster said to have reached a 'first major agreement' to join one of the two clubs.
United officials remain unclear over what prompted Gabriel's request. He made his UEFA Youth League debut against Sabah last Thursday, scoring a hat-trick. The Old Trafford hierarchy are unwilling to tear up his contract, which expires at the end of the season. If United terminated the deal, they could receive as little as £300,000 in compensation. Gabriel has been absent from the club for the past two weeks, and his departure now appears increasingly likely, although United have made it clear his welfare remains their priority.
