Real Madrid has been working quietly for months to secure Manchester United starlet JJ Gabriel, following the 15-year-old’s sudden request to deregister and leave the English club.
According to The Athletic journalist Laurie Whitwell, the Spanish giants are moving discreetly amid parallel interest from Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Bayern Munich in the prodigy dubbed “Kid Messi.”
Real Madrid aims to avoid repeating mistakes that previously led to sanctions against European clubs over youth signings. Consequently, the club is meticulously reviewing every step in full compliance with FIFA regulations regarding international transfers of players under 18.
The crisis erupted when Gabriel submitted a formal letter demanding the immediate cancellation of his registration. Manchester United rejected the request and remains determined to keep him, with Jim Ratcliffe’s management attempting to repair the relationship and convince the youngster to stay.
Gabriel turns 16 on October 6, making him eligible to sign a scholarship contract, though he cannot sign a professional deal in England until he turns 17—making the coming months pivotal.
While Gabriel’s camp has not fully disclosed their reasons, British media link his decision to frustration over his pathway and limited pre-season minutes with the senior team, having played just eight minutes against Atlético Madrid.
A versatile attacker who operates as a left winger, second striker, or center-forward, Gabriel stands out for his dribbling, close control in tight spaces, explosive ball carrying, and composure in front of goal—qualities that drew early comparisons to Lionel Messi.
Last season, he bagged 28 goals and six assists in 35 matches, becoming the youngest-ever winner of Manchester United’s Jimmy Murphy Young Player of the Year award. He opened the current campaign with two goals and two assists for the U21s, alongside a hat-trick on his UEFA Youth League debut.
