Real Madrid have emerged as the frontrunners to recruit Manchester United youngster JJ Gabriel after he informed the Premier League side that he wants to end his registration with the club.
The 15-year-old’s impressive displays at academy level have drawn attention from several leading European teams. Barcelona have shown interest in signing him, while Bayern Munich are also understood to rate the winger highly. Gabriel reportedly favours a move to mainland Europe, which would be possible because he holds an Irish passport.
While Gabriel’s decision caught United off guard, some figures at the club had already suspected that he might not agree to professional terms amid growing interest from elsewhere. United nevertheless believe the situation could still be resolved, having supported his development since he arrived at the age of 11. He can sign scholarship terms after turning 16 next month and will become eligible for a professional deal one year later.
Joining Real Madrid could offer Gabriel a quicker route into senior-level football through Castilla, the Spanish club’s reserve side, who compete in the regionalised third division.
Before notifying United that he wished to depart, Gabriel had been in line for a call-up from Michael Carrick for Wednesday’s Carabao Cup match against Brighton. An appearance would have made him the youngest player ever to represent the club.
Speaking about Gabriel following the loss to Brighton, Carrick stressed the need to handle the matter carefully. He said the club must remember that Gabriel is only 15 and prioritise the welfare, wellbeing and appropriate level of exposure of its young players.
Gabriel played in a pre-season friendly against Atlético Madrid in Stockholm and has also taken part regularly in first-team training sessions in recent weeks.
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