Real Madrid are among several top European clubs interested in signing Manchester United academy forward JJ Gabriel.
The 15-year-old has formally asked United to cancel his registration with immediate effect, although the club has the option to challenge the request.
Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich and Chelsea are also reportedly interested, with sources describing Real Madrid’s pursuit as particularly strong.
Real want to sign Gabriel immediately and place him with Castilla, their reserve side, which competes in Spain’s third-tier senior league.
Gabriel, who turns 16 on October 6, is understood to have become frustrated with his pathway to United’s first team. Sources close to the player believe assurances made about his progression have not been fulfilled.
United, however, had been planning for Gabriel to potentially become their youngest-ever senior player by featuring in Wednesday’s EFL Cup match against Brighton. He is currently not training with the club.
United head coach Michael Carrick, who handed Gabriel his senior debut during pre-season against Atletico Madrid, urged caution because of the teenager’s age.
“He’s a young boy. He’s 15,” Carrick said, stressing the importance of protecting young players’ welfare and managing their exposure.
Gabriel’s representatives have reportedly pointed to other teenagers, including Arsenal’s Max Dowman, as examples of clubs giving opportunities to young players.
Any immediate departure is complicated by regulations governing the registration of young players. United maintain that Gabriel’s registration runs until the end of the season, meaning a move would be more straightforward once he turns 16.
However, because Gabriel holds an EU passport, he could potentially join a club within the European Union on his 16th birthday.
