Real Madrid are in the final stages of their bid to sign JJ Gabriel, one of Manchester United’s brightest academy prospects. The 16-year-old forward drew interest from several European clubs after asking to leave United in September and stepping away from training.
Sky Sports previously reported that Madrid had reached a verbal agreement with Gabriel, who had also attracted interest from Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich. Having impressed at youth level, the teenager is looking for a quicker route to first-team football.
Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano reported that Gabriel’s representatives have formally informed the other interested clubs of his decision. The forward has set his sights on Real Madrid, with work ongoing to finalise the remaining terms of the transfer.
The race for his signature began last season, when Gabriel was named the Under-18 Premier League Player of the Season despite starting the campaign at just 14. He also scored a hat-trick on his UEFA Youth League debut.
Gabriel featured for United’s first team against Atlético Madrid in pre-season and was in contention to make his competitive debut against Brighton in the League Cup. He asked to leave in September, a month before his 16th birthday.
Although he has been away from training, Gabriel remains registered with United’s academy until the end of the season. As of Wednesday, Madrid had an agreement with the player and his representatives, while talks between the clubs had yet to begin.
Madrid are aiming to complete the deal in January. Gabriel has obtained an EU passport, which is expected to make it easier for him to register outside England. United would be entitled to compensation if he leaves.
Gabriel has made his choice and informed his other suitors. Madrid’s focus now turns to completing the deal and making it official in the winter window.
