Deco shuts down Barcelona transfer links to Manchester United teenager JJ Gabriel

Barcelona sporting director Deco has firmly dismissed speculation linking the Catalan giants with a move for Manchester United academy wonderkid JJ Gabriel.

The 15-year-old prodigy has made headlines in recent weeks after reportedly seeking an exit route from Old Trafford. Gabriel has attracted interest from several top European clubs following his request to depart Manchester United, with Barcelona frequently mentioned among his potential suitors.

However, Deco clarified that the Blaugrana are not pursuing the teenager and have not entered any talks regarding his availability.

“There’s nothing to say about this boy. It’s common for certain players to be linked with us,” Deco told Mundo Deportivo. “As for his situation, I don’t know what happened. It’s a matter we’re not involved in because, first and foremost, we need to understand all the circumstances before trying to do anything or talking about young players.”

Gabriel is currently contracted to Manchester United until the end of the season. Despite the youngster's desire to seek a new challenge elsewhere in Europe, the Premier League side are reportedly unwilling to de-register the highly-rated attacker before his contract concludes.