Manchester United are closing in on a return to Premier League action after a three-week break, with Michael Carrick preparing to welcome Roberto De Zerbi and Tottenham to Old Trafford. International players are set to return, but much of the off-field chat has concerned JJ Gabriel, whose future has yet to be resolved.
Gabriel handed warning
Former Manchester United defender Phil Bardsley has warned JJ Gabriel he doesn't believe the youngster is ready for Premier League football. The comments come amid suggestions that a lack of first-team action is behind the teenager's desire to leave the club.
"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 [Wayne] 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 contract talks stall
Manchester United and Arsenal have been handed a boost with the news that Christian Kofane has reportedly put contract talks on hold. The Bayer Leverkusen star was linked with a Premier League move over the summer, and the two clubs have made contact with his representatives.
According to SportBild, interest in Kofane has been present for a while. His current Leverkusen deal runs until 2029, and he has not agreed to improved terms which could keep him at the BayArena until 2031.
The Cameroonian is still said to be open to an extension, though the terms don't appear to align with what he wants. The Bundesliga club look ready to offer a significant bump on the salary agreed when joining during Erik ten Hag's brief tenure, but some details still need to be ironed out, and United or their league rivals could yet take advantage.
October is a busy month on the pitch for Carrick's team. After Spurs' weekend visit, there are five more matches in all competitions, including Champions League trips to Atletico Madrid and Como.
