JJ Gabriel edging closer to Man Utd exit as Barça and Real talks advance

JJ Gabriel, a 15-year-old forward at Manchester United, is getting closer to leaving Old Trafford. Sky Sports reports that the youngster has made his desire to go clear and has pushed for de-registration, with Barcelona and Real Madrid now involved in talks over a potential move.

Formal request after Youth League

Manchester United received a request from Gabriel and his family to be de-registered earlier this week. The formal step came after their UEFA Youth League tie against Sabah last Thursday, a game United won 5-0 with Gabriel scoring a hat-trick. According to Sky Sports, United’s leadership were hopeful they could persuade the teenager to stay, as he is contracted until the end of the season, but the situation is increasingly looking like an exit.

The report also adds that Gabriel has not trained with United since that match. He was also left out of England youth squads named on Friday, despite most recently playing for England at U17 level.

Barcelona and Real lead, PSG & Bayern also interested

While United tries to keep him, Barcelona and Real Madrid are advancing in discussions to sign the player. Sky Sports also states that PSG and Bayern Munich remain interested. The belief outlined in the piece is that Gabriel could move to a European club once he turns 16 on October 6, provided he obtains a European passport—something the article says he could be able to get through a route linked to a prior precedent and a FIFA loophole.

Right now, the decisive factor is how his registration situation develops and whether the Spanish talks turn into a final outcome.