Barcelona and Real Madrid want the jewel of the MLS

The two major clubs in Spain are interested in the new American football star.

Javier Parra Peña | 17 Sep 2026 | 20.30
twitter tiktok instagram instagram Comentarios
Preferir Fichajes.net en Google
Barcelona and Real Madrid want the MLS gem
Barcelona and Real Madrid want the MLS gem

Barcelona and Real Madrid have made new informal inquiries to learn about the situation of midfielder Cavan Sullivan, a 16-year-old who plays for the Philadelphia Union. The new MLS sensation is being targeted for a future signing by Barcelona and Real Madrid.

According to TEAMtalk, both Spanish clubs have once again approached the player's entourage following his performances in the Major League Soccer, only to find that the player remains committed to joining Manchester City when he reaches the required age.

Barcelona and Real Madrid inquire about Cavan Sullivan again following his breakthrough at Philadelphia Union

Cavan Sullivan's impressive records at Philadelphia Union attracting elite interest

The 16-year-old attacking midfielder has tallied 6 goals and 5 assists in 23 official appearances during the 2026 season with the Philadelphia Union. He made his MLS debut in July 2024 at 14 years and 293 days old, surpassing Freddy Adu's record by 13 days as the youngest debutant in U.S. professional leagues.

His performance in the American competition has increased his market value on Transfermarkt to 4.5 million euros. These numbers have prompted Barcelona and Real Madrid to send scouts to watch his matches in the American tournament consistently.

Pre-agreement with Manchester City blocking Barcelona and Real Madrid

Despite the interest from Barcelona and Real Madrid, the striker signed a developmental contract with the Philadelphia Union in 2024 until December 2028, which includes a preferential transfer clause to the City Football Group. The agreement between the American club and Manchester City was finalized in December 2025 for 4.3 million euros (5 million dollars).

The player intends to stick to the plan set with Manchester City for his Premier League move. Therefore, the approaches made by Barcelona and Real Madrid have not led to formal negotiations with Philadelphia's board.

Barcelona and Real Madrid will continue monitoring the youngster's development in the MLS during the 2026 and 2027 seasons. Cavan Sullivan's definitive transfer to England will take place once he turns 18 in September 2027, at which point his contract with Manchester City will be formalized.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Barcelona y Real Madrid quieren a la joya de la MLS