Mourinho and Pep both keen on landing 19-year-old
Manchester City and Manchester United are set to battle it out for young superstar Gabriel Jesus this summer.
The teenage striker, who has shone for Palmeiras this year, has attracted interest from a number of top European clubs in recent months.
City firmed up their interest with a bid believed to be in the region of €32million for him this week, while Pep Guardiola even phoned Gabriel to discuss possible plans.
But Jose Mourinho and United are now also in the mix, say reports in Brazil.
It’s thought the Red Devils have told Palmeiras that they are willing to pay €35million for the forward’s services.
Oddly, United are one of five European giants – along with Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain – for whom Gabriel’s buyout clause is only €24million; for all other teams, City included, the figure is €40million.
But with their local rivals hovering with intent, United would appear willing to throw more money at the deal.
Palmeiras coach Cuca voiced his displeasure at Guardiola’s efforts to lure his star player and hopes to keep hold of him until the end of 2016.
The Sao Paulo outfit, who are currently top of the league in Brazil, only own 30 per cent of Gabriel’s economic rights.
By Ben Kelly – @benkelly_10
