Manchester United wonderkid JJ Gabriel has quickly become one of the most talked-about young players in the transfer market after reportedly handing in a transfer request at Old Trafford.
The 15-year-old is regarded as one of the brightest prospects in the Manchester United academy, but his future is now uncertain following a reported breakdown in relations between his family and the club.
Gabriel’s situation has immediately attracted attention from some of Europe’s biggest clubs. Barcelona are among those linked with a move for the teenager, with the Catalan giants reportedly keen to take advantage of the uncertainty surrounding his future at United.
However, Barcelona could face strong competition from one of their biggest rivals.
Real Madrid step up pursuit of JJ Gabriel
According to the Daily Mail, Real Madrid have intensified their interest in JJ Gabriel and are looking to make a move for the Manchester United youngster.
The Spanish giants have reportedly been monitoring the teenager for some time, but their efforts have now increased as his situation at Old Trafford develops.
Real Madrid are particularly keen to beat Barcelona to Gabriel’s signature, adding another layer to an increasingly competitive transfer race.
The report claims the Madrid club are pushing hard for the player and are now emerging as a serious force in determining where his future lies.
For United, the situation has developed remarkably quickly. Just two weeks after the summer transfer window closed, Gabriel has gone from being viewed as one of the academy’s most exciting prospects to attracting interest from some of Europe’s biggest clubs.
With both Barcelona and Real Madrid showing interest, the teenager’s next move could become one of the most closely watched youth transfer stories in European football.
Manchester United retain interest in Al-Hilal forward
Manchester United retain interest in Al-Hilal forward
Manchester United sign promising forward from Liverpool
Manchester United sign promising forward from Liverpool