United target Kofane stalls on Leverkusen extension as Gabriel faces readiness warning

Manchester United’s transfer landscape shifted during the international break as Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Christian Kofane reportedly paused contract extension talks, opening a window for United and Arsenal to pursue the Cameroonian. Meanwhile, former United defender Phil Bardsley has publicly questioned whether teenage winger JJ Gabriel is ready for Premier League football amid reports the youngster is seeking a move away from Old Trafford.

According to SportBild, Kofane’s existing Leverkusen deal runs until 2029, and he has not agreed to improved terms that would extend his stay at the BayArena until 2031. Leverkusen are reportedly prepared to offer a significant salary increase on the contract he signed during Erik ten Hag’s tenure, but the two parties have yet to align on the full terms. Both United and Arsenal have made contact with Kofane’s representatives, with interest said to have been building over several months.

On the Gabriel situation, Bardsley was candid in his assessment of the teenager’s prospects. “From the outside, physically I don’t think he’s ready to be thrown in at the level yet,” he said. “I think from years gone by, you look at players who have physically developed. You have Rooney, for instance, who was ready to go and play at that age.”

Bardsley also suggested that external pressures may be driving the push for a departure. “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.”

Gabriel’s desire to leave has been linked to a lack of first-team opportunities at United, though Bardsley’s comments reflect a broader concern that the move could come too soon for a player still developing physically.

United manager Michael Carrick now turns his attention back to domestic matters, with Tottenham visiting Old Trafford this weekend to kick off a demanding October schedule that also includes Champions League fixtures against Atletico Madrid and Como.