CORNERFLICK
Real Madrid emerge as the front-runner
J.J. Gabriel is closer than ever to a move to Real Madrid after turning down Paris Saint-Germain’s latest offer and making clear that he wants to continue his career in Spain. According to the Spanish daily Sport, the teenager’s next step is now clearer, although he has not spoken publicly about his destination.
He is waiting for Manchester United to formally confirm the end of his spell at the club, while also waiting for his Cypriot passport to be issued so the paperwork for his registration in Europe can be completed.
PSG push falls short
PSG had tried again in recent days, improving their offer on sporting and financial terms. The French club also pointed to Luis Enrique’s work with young players, but Gabriel and his representatives did not change their view.
He thanked PSG for the approach, but believes his development does not depend on leaving the Premier League for France.
Barcelona and Bayern drop away
Barcelona made contact with Gabriel’s agent, Ali Barat, to check the conditions of a deal, but people around the club later admitted they were far behind the leading candidates. Deco has also been clear about that position.
Bayern Munich dropped out early, Barcelona did not enter a major bidding war, and PSG failed to win the player over. That leaves Real Madrid as the only club prepared to pay more than €10 million for a three-year contract with sporting conditions attached, and the move to the Santiago Bernabéu now looks the likeliest outcome, though no official announcement has been made.