JJ Gabriel, 15-year-old youth star, nearing exit from Man Utd

Manchester United are dealing with a potential exit for their highly rated 15-year-old forward JJ Gabriel, with BBC Sport saying he is “on the verge of leaving” the club.

Even though he was only 14 when the season began, Gabriel won Premier League Under-18 player of the year last term, and was also named United’s Under-18 player of the year. On the pitch, his momentum has been impressive: last week he scored a hat-trick on his UEFA Youth League debut, and he had been expected to make his competitive bow in Wednesday night’s Carabao Cup tie with Brighton.

Family disagreement with the club

BBC Sport explains that the precise issues haven’t been spelled out, but it is understood Gabriel didn’t train with Michael Carrick’s squad at the end of last week due to problems in the relationship between the player’s family and Manchester United.

The club, however, haven’t given up hope. According to United sources cited by BBC Sport, chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox are directly involved in discussions with the player’s family, showing how seriously the situation is being treated.

Immediate request to cancel registration

Gabriel has sent a formal notice saying he wants to cancel his registration with immediate effect, and United would be able to challenge the request, BBC Sport adds. Gabriel turns 16 on 6 October, when he would be able to sign a scholarship agreement.

Born in London, he previously scored twice on his debut for United’s Under-18s at 14, was key in United reaching both youth cup finals last season, and this term moved into the Premier League 2 squad after a strong start.