Barcelona are monitoring Eintracht Frankfurt teenager Niko Ilicevic after Real Madrid moved closer to signing Manchester United prospect JJ Gabriel.

Diario SPORT reports that Barcelona see the 16-year-old attacking midfielder as a potential alternative after losing ground in the race for Gabriel. The club is currently tracking his progress, with no formal offer or negotiations reported.

Who is Niko Ilicevic?

Ilicevic is a 16-year-old German attacking midfielder who came through Eintracht Frankfurt’s academy. He made Bundesliga history against Hamburg on 1 November, coming off the bench at 16 years and one day to become the competition’s joint-youngest player alongside Youssoufa Moukoko.

He has since made two senior appearances for Frankfurt, playing 27 minutes in total. His progress had attracted attention before his senior debut. Ilicevic scored four goals and provided three assists in seven appearances for Frankfurt’s Under-19 side this season.

He also featured in the UEFA Youth League last campaign, scoring against Barcelona in a 4-3 defeat.

An attacking midfielder comfortable in advanced positions, Ilicevic has impressed with his technical ability and work on the ball.

Frankfurt head coach Adi Hütter has praised his development, describing him as an exceptional player who has learned to compete physically against older opponents.

Frankfurt have been careful not to rush him into regular first-team football, making his recent breakthrough an important step in his development.

Why Barcelona Are Watching Him

Barcelona’s reported interest comes as they lose ground in the race for Gabriel.

The Manchester United youngster had attracted attention from several European clubs, but Real Madrid have moved into pole position after reaching a verbal agreement with him and his representatives.

Gabriel also appeared to make his preference clear when asked whether he favoured Barcelona or Real Madrid, reportedly replying: “Obviously, Madrid.”

Ilicevic is another young attacking talent Barcelona can monitor as they look for promising players across Europe. His technical qualities and potential make him a player worth following, although he remains some way from becoming an established senior option.

A move away from Frankfurt would not be straightforward. German reports say that Ilicevic is covered by a development agreement expected to become a professional contract running until 2031, when he turns 18. The agreement reportedly has no release clause, giving Frankfurt significant control over his future.

Other reports linked to SPORT suggest his representatives would prefer a reasonable release clause. The differing accounts leave some uncertainty over the final contract terms, but Frankfurt’s reported long-term arrangement makes an immediate departure unlikely.

The club has good reason to keep hold of a player they have developed since he joined their academy as an eight-year-old in 2018. His promotion to the first-team squad also shows the faith they have in his potential.

For now, Barcelona’s interest appears to be about monitoring his development rather than pursuing an immediate transfer. Ilicevic still has plenty of room to grow, and Frankfurt are keen to keep him as part of their plans.