Real Madrid are reportedly at the forefront of clubs looking to sign Manchester United's 15-year-old talent, JJ Gabriel. The young winger has informed the Premier League club of his wish to cancel his registration, attracting significant interest from across Europe.
Gabriel's academy performances have caught the eye of several top clubs, with Barcelona keen to acquire him and Bayern Munich also known admirers. It is understood that Gabriel prefers a move to Europe, a prospect enabled by his Irish passport.
Despite the surprise at Gabriel's decision, some within United had anticipated he might not sign a professional contract given the circling interest from other clubs. United, however, still believe they may be able to resolve the situation, having developed him since he joined at the age of 11.
A move to Real Madrid could offer Gabriel an accelerated path to senior football through their B team, Castilla, which competes in the Spanish third tier. Manchester United manager Michael Carrick commented on the situation, stating, "I just think we've got to be really careful of the whole situation. He's a young boy. He's 15, and for me, definitely, and from a club point of view, looking after our younger players – their welfare, their wellbeing, their exposure – we've got to be really conscious of that in this situation."
Gabriel has recently trained with the first team and featured in a pre-season friendly against Atlético Madrid. He would have been eligible to sign as a scholar next month when he turns 16, and as a professional a year later.