Barcelona pull out of race for Brazilian starlet with Real Madrid set to pounce

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Barcelona have reportedly pulled out of the race to sign Gabriel Jesus, which in turn means that the path is clear for Real Madrid to swoop.

The 19-year-old has been gaining plenty of interest with his performances in his homeland, leading to the likes of Barca and Real seriously considering making offers.

However, according to Marca, Palmeiras general manager Alexandre Mattos travelled to Madrid recently to hold meetings with the Spanish giants and begin negotiations over a transfer of the striker.

It is added that an agreement of €30m could be reached in the coming days, with the Brazilian outfit already rejecting offers of around €20m for the promising youngster.

Supporters will get an opportunity to look at him more closely when he features in the Olympics later this summer, but ultimately he’s done enough to convince Real that he deserves a move to Europe at this early stage of his career.

Given the presence of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar, it seems illogical for Barca to continue to search for attacking players whose talent demands more than a back-up role.

However, the Brazilian striker will arguably be left equally as frustrated with a bit-part role at either the Nou Camp or the Bernabeu as a move to Real would see him compete with the likes of Karim Benzema and Alvaro Morata.

His agents hold 55 per cent of his economic rights, Palmeiras have 30 per cent while his family own the remaining 15 per cent according to Marca, and so Real will have to deal with various parties to reach an agreement over the transfer.

Nevertheless, they seem convinced over the move, but as noted by Marca, they will have to be wary of continued interest from Manchester City and Inter.

Gabriel Jesus has scored 15 goals and provided two assists in 18 appearances in all competitions this season so far, and has continued to impress watchful eyes from Europe.

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