Manchester United are already lining up wonderkid JJ Gabriel for a record-breaking first-team debut as the club bids to fend off heavyweight suitors, according to reports. The Red Devils have already taken measures to attempt to convince the 14-year-old talent to stay put, and they could be ready to offer him a clear pathway to senior football.
Gabriel is considered one of the most exciting prospects in academy football, already signing a bumper deal with Nike, who want him to be the "heir to Cristiano Ronaldo's throne". He has already inherited the nickname 'Kid Messi' after a series of viral social media clips showcasing his skills when he was younger.
But given his age, United are in a vulnerable position, with clubs able to swoop in and secure his services should Gabriel be keen on a move.
He doesn't turn 15 until October, but club figures believe he has already outgrown Under-16s football, and he is already making an impact at Under-18 level.
According to The Sun, Gabriel's next step up could be in Ruben Amorim's first team, in what would be a historic promotion.
It's claimed that there have already been talks within the walls of Old Trafford over the handling of the starlet's career beyond this season.
And there is now a serious expectation that Gabriel will become the club's youngest-ever player as early as next term, potentially in a cup competition.
Goalkeeper David Gaskell is still the record holder, making his debut at the age of 16 years and 19 days in 1956.
But Gabriel's breakthrough feels like a matter of time, especially if he continues his eye-catching contributions for the U18s.
He scored twice in a 25-minute cameo on his debut against Leeds United in a 13-1 rout in April. The versatile attacker then found the net in a 4-0 triumph over Stoke City.
Gabriel is also already at the centre of the international spotlight, playing for England Under-15s, so United's attempts to keep him under wraps are mission impossible.
Amorim has already proven he is ready to give youth an opportunity if they are good enough, although injuries have opened the door to his debutants this season.
Chido Obi, Harry Amass and Tyler Fredricson have all broken through under the Portuguese tactician's watch.
At the start of May, Obi became United's youngest-ever Premier League starter at 17 years and 156 days against Brentford.
Should Gabriel make his Premier League bow next season, he could become the youngest player in the competition's history.
Arsenal's Ethan Nwaneri, who debuted aged 15 years and 181 days against Brentford in September 2022, is the current record holder.