Real Madrid are increasingly confident of securing the signature of Manchester United's highly-rated forward JJ Gabriel, according to sources. The 16-year-old has not returned to United since leaving the club in September, and has been training on his own in Spain.
A Rising Star
Gabriel, who joined United in 2022, was expected to become the club's youngest debutant in the Carabao Cup tie against Brighton in September. However, he has opted to pursue senior football elsewhere, alerting clubs across Europe including Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain. But it is Real Madrid, under the guidance of Jose Mourinho, who are considered the frontrunners for his signature.
The young forward has already made a name for himself, scoring a hat-trick on his UEFA Youth League debut and being named the Premier League's Under-18 player of the season last term, despite being only 14 at the time. A United source described him as "the best 15-year-old in Europe," while former interim manager Darren Fletcher said, "The world is his oyster."
United's Compensation
Should Gabriel leave, United would be entitled to compensation, though the figure would be lower if he signs for a club outside the Premier League. The player has secured a European Union passport, which is expected to facilitate a move to a club outside England.
United head coach Michael Carrick, speaking after the EFL Cup defeat by Brighton, emphasized the need to handle the situation carefully. "We've got to be really careful of the whole situation," he said. "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 well-being, their exposure - we've got to be really conscious of that in this situation."
What's Next?
Gabriel's potential move to Real Madrid would be a significant blow to Manchester United, who have high hopes for the young forward. The club now faces the challenge of convincing him to stay or securing appropriate compensation. For Gabriel, the opportunity to join a club of Real Madrid's stature and work under Mourinho could be a tempting prospect as he seeks to accelerate his development and secure senior playing time.
As the saga unfolds, all eyes will be on the young talent's next move, with Real Madrid seemingly in pole position to land one of Europe's most promising youngsters.
