Manchester United haven’t given up on their efforts to keep hold of teenage attacking sensation JJ Gabriel amidst interest from Real Madrid and Barcelona.
Manchester United are refusing to give up in the battle to retain JJ Gabriel, despite growing indications that the 15-year-old could be heading towards a move away.
According to TEAMtalk, the club have made little progress in negotiations with Gabriel’s camp ahead of his 16th birthday on October 6, when he will be eligible to sign a scholarship deal and appoint an agent. The lack of movement has raised internal concerns, but the Red Devils remain determined to keep him.
There has been no clear indication that Gabriel is prepared to commit to United. Interest in the teenager has intensified significantly. Chelsea are regarded as his main suitors within England, but Gabriel’s camp are believed to be leaning towards a move abroad.
Gabriel likely to join a Spanish giant
Real Madrid and Barcelona have held discussions, with Spain emerging as the likely destination. Critically, Gabriel’s EU passport allows him to move between European clubs at 16, a flexibility unavailable to others, opening doors to some of the continent’s biggest clubs.
Both Spanish giants have a great track record of developing young talents, and joining them could be a massive jump for the English youth international, who is considered a generational talent.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Gabriel has continued to impress on the pitch. He has made a strong start to the season, scoring twice in two league games for the Under-21s, while also netting a hat-trick in the UEFA Youth League against Sabah. Those performances have only strengthened his reputation as one of the most exciting young talents in his age group.
Gabriel will be free to appoint an agent once he turns 16 and, as per the report, super-agent Ali Barat could end up taking charge on his behalf. His influence is expected to prove decisive in shaping the youngster’s next move.
Manchester United are holding firm, but as he turns 16 and appoints an agent, the club face an uphill battle to convince him that his future lies at Old Trafford. While they denied his request for de-registration, the Red Devils don’t really have any control over his future once he turns 16.