Real Madrid have held talks with Manchester United and informed the Premier League side of their intention to sign JJ Gabriel.
The young star turned 16 years of age on October 6th and is eligible to sign his first professional contract. He joined Manchester United’s academy in 2022 and has enjoyed a rapid rise since then.
Last July, the Red Devils promoted him to their U18 squad and the attacking midfielder starred for them last season.
He managed 29 goals and four assists from 32 matches. This helped him make his way into Manchester United U21 side in the summer. This season, Gabriel played 120 minutes for the U21s, managing two goals and two assists.
Last month, the player informed Manchester United of his desire to leave. Since then, the England U17 international hasn’t made an appearance for the club.
Manchester United youngster not short of options
On September 18th, Bayern Munich sporting director Christoph Freund said JJ Gabriel is a “very talented” player.
Earlier this month, Sport Witness relayed news about the Bavarian club’s meeting to sign the Manchester United man.
While the German media have covered the Bundesliga winners’ interest, the media in Spain reported Real Madrid and Barcelona as options. In his latest report for AS, journalist José Félix Díaz shares fresh updates about Los Blancos.
José Mourinho’s side have first examined the legality of the operation. The teenager was born in England to an Irish father and a Cypriot mother.
This makes him eligible to obtain an EU passport, which is necessary to secure a move outside the UK before he turns 18.
Real Madrid’s talks with Manchester United
The La Liga giants then approached the Old Trafford club to find out JJ Gabriel’s ties and the contractual situation with them.
José Félix Díaz states: ‘Real Madrid kept United’s management informed at all times of the possibility of signing him and their willingness to negotiate a transfer fee for the young English talent.’
Los Blancos have ‘set a financial limit’ to sign the young attacker, without going into the details. Gabriel, who would request €1m in salary, is considering Real Madrid’s proposal.
In Spain, he also has an option to join Barcelona while Bayern Munich remain in the battle for his signature.
Gabriel’s future seems to be away from Manchester United, who want to avoid losing him to another English club.
There will be more developments when Gabriel and his representatives are closer to making the final decision about his future.
