Real Madrid are closing in on Manchester United prospect JJ Gabriel after moving ahead in the race for the youngster, who has decided to pursue a fresh opportunity to continue his development away from the English club.
According to a Marca report by journalist Matteo Moretto, the young forward is already in the Spanish capital and training there, while work continues to resolve the remaining details of the move.
The newspaper reports that Barcelona have withdrawn from the race after making enquiries and expressing interest. Madrid are now favourites to secure Gabriel, who has also attracted attention from Paris Saint-Germain and other European clubs.
In a further development, the BBC reported that Real Madrid have reached a verbal agreement with Gabriel and his representatives, with a view to signing him in January. However, no discussions have yet taken place between the clubs, meaning the move has not reached the final signing stage.
Gabriel, 16, remains registered with Manchester United but has not returned to the club since leaving in September. He is seeking a pathway that offers him an opportunity to break into first-team football.
He featured against Atlético Madrid during United’s pre-season tour, and the club had expected to hand him his competitive debut against Brighton in the League Cup in September, before events shifted towards his desire to leave.
The forward was named Under-18 Premier League Player of the Season last term and scored a hat-trick on his UEFA Youth League debut. He also signed a sponsorship deal with Nike at the age of 14.
The BBC added that Gabriel has obtained a passport from an EU member state, which is expected to facilitate a move outside England. United would be entitled to compensation if he leaves, although the amount would be lower than if he joined another Premier League club.
