Barcelona Transfer News: Latest on Gabriel Jesus Amid Real Madrid Battle Rumours

Palmeiras starlet Gabriel Jesus has reportedly given Barcelona "his word" that he wants to play for them amid speculation the Blaugrana will go head-to-head with rivals Real Madrid for his signature. 

That's according to Sport's Joaquim Piera, who noted the 19-year-old has communicated his desire to play at the Camp Nou to the club's "technical secretary executives" and told the Catalan newspaper that "playing at Barca would be a dream."

Piera added that manager Luis Enrique and president Josep Maria Bartomeu will meet "this week" to discuss transfers and finalise "the strategy to complete a deal."

Meanwhile, Javier Silles and Marco Ruiz of AS reported that Los Blancos haven't given up on his capture—not only are they willing to match his release clause, they're prepared to offer him a "greater financial incentive" to join them.

Spanish football expert Sergi Dominguez commented on the race for Jesus hotting up between the two clubs:

Indeed, Sport recently noted as much, per Selecao Brasiliera on Twitter:

The youngster appears to be the next big thing in Brazilian football, drawing inevitable comparisons with Barcelona star Neymar.

Those comparisons do seem apt, though, as his style of play and flair are reminiscent of the former Santos forward.

As the video below demonstrates, Jesus possesses exceptional pace and technique:

The Brazilian is also adding more consistency to his game—something also required of Neymar when he arrived in Barcelona—having netted 13 goals in 16 games this season.

Barca have more need of a back-up forward than Real, as they have fewer quality alternatives to their front three—and over a long season fighting on multiple fronts, the ability to rest and rotate players is invaluable.

Further, he has incredible potential to grow as a player. While there's nothing to stop him fulfilling that at the Santiago Bernabeu, following the same path as Neymar could be the most beneficial move he can make given the way his compatriot has thrived at the Camp Nou.