Real Madrid are positioned to secure the signing of Manchester United forward JJ Gabriel, having successfully reached a verbal agreement with the 16-year-old and his representatives. While no formal club-to-club negotiations have commenced, the Spanish giants expect to finalize the transfer when the window opens in January. According to though no club-to-club talks have been held, sources have, Sport Real have verbally agreed a deal with Gabriel and his representatives. Follow Manchester United on Sounds.
Gabriel, who joined Manchester United in 2022, has not returned to the club since walking out in September. Despite being registered with United, the teenager has been training independently in Spain. His departure from the English club stems from a desire to pursue senior football opportunities elsewhere.
The young forward was highly regarded within the Manchester United setup. He featured against Atletico Madrid during the team’s pre-season tour and was initially expected to make his senior debut during the September Carabao Cup match against Brighton. Last season, he was recognized as the Premier League’s Under-18 player of the season, an achievement he reached while still only 14 years old. This place does magical things’ – Will Roma win turn Man Utd’s season around.
United sources previously described him as the top 15-year-old talent in Europe, with former interim manager Darren Fletcher remarking that the world is his oyster.
Following the Carabao Cup exit to Brighton, head coach Michael Carrick urged caution regarding the player’s development. Carrick emphasized the need to prioritize the welfare, well-being, and exposure of younger players, noting that the club must remain conscious of these factors in sensitive situations.
Before settling on a move to Real Madrid, Gabriel’s availability attracted interest from other major European clubs, including Barcelona and Paris St-Germain. His acquisition of a European Union passport is expected to simplify the transition to a club outside of England. Should the transfer proceed, Manchester United will be entitled to compensation, although the specific fee would be lower than if he were to join a fellow Premier League side.
Gabriel previously marked his Uefa Youth League debut with a hat-trick, underscoring his high potential. As the situation remains unresolved regarding his formal exit, he continues to train away from the Manchester United facilities, effectively signaling the end of his time at the club.
