Manchester United return to Premier League action on Saturday against Tottenham after nearly a month without domestic football. During the international break, attention has turned to the futures of two young talents: JJ Gabriel and Christian Kofane.
Bardsley's warning for Gabriel
Former United defender Phil Bardsley does not believe JJ Gabriel is equipped for Premier League football at this stage in his career, comparing him with Wayne Rooney after the ex-England star broke through at a similar age. The warning comes amid reports that insufficient first-team opportunities are driving Gabriel's desire to leave United.
"From the outside, physically I don't think he's ready to be thrown in at the level yet," Bardsley told talkSPORT. "I think from years gone by, you look at players who have physically developed. You have Rooney, for instance, who was ready to go and play at that age."
"Look at the boy at the minute, his abilities are obviously there, he's an outstanding talent and hopefully goes on to be a great player. But I think the timing's a bit off, the way things are at the club and the way it came out."
"But I believe it's been orchestrated by agents, parents, and pushing for these things when you're at such a delicate age and you're in a transition into men's football. I think you need to be patient."
Kofane situation leaves United on alert
Manchester United and Premier League rivals Arsenal have received encouragement following reports that Christian Kofane has put contract negotiations on ice. The Bayer Leverkusen star was touted for a Premier League switch during the summer but nothing materialised, though there has been continued interest.
According to SportBild, both United and Arsenal have been sniffing around for some time. Leverkusen want to offer Kofane improved terms and a longer deal, running until 2031, but nothing has been agreed and the current proposals don't seem to match the Cameroonian's expectations.
The Bundesliga outfit appear prepared to offer the 20-year-old a substantial increase on the wages agreed when Erik ten Hag brought him to Germany. However, while he remains on that deal - which runs until 2029 - United and Arsenal may feel they have a chance to capitalise.
