Real Madrid are reportedly making strong efforts to sign Manchester United's 15-year-old academy forward, JJ Gabriel. The Spanish giants are among several major European clubs, including Barcelona, PSG, Bayern Munich, and Chelsea, who are said to be interested in the young talent.
Gabriel has formally notified Manchester United of his desire to cancel his registration with immediate effect, a request the club can challenge. Sources close to the player, who turns 16 on October 6, reportedly feel that United has not kept promises regarding his pathway to the first team.
United, however, claim it was anticipated Gabriel would become their youngest ever senior player by featuring in Wednesday night's EFL Cup tie against Brighton. Head coach Michael Carrick, who gave Gabriel his senior debut in a pre-season match, has urged caution, stating everyone needs to be mindful of the player's age and welfare.
Real Madrid reportedly aims to recruit Gabriel immediately for their recognised reserve team, Real Madrid Castilla, which plays in senior football within the Spanish third league system. Any immediate move is complicated by rules concerning the registration of young players, though Gabriel's EU passport could potentially allow him to join a club within EU borders on his 16th birthday.