Manchester United starlet JJ Gabriel has sparked a new transfer saga
JJ Gabriel of Manchester United
Manchester United starlet JJ Gabriel has been linked with several clubs(Image: Manchester United/Manchester United via Getty Images)
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Manchester United youngster JJ Gabriel has requested to cancel his registration at the club in a shock development for the budding young star's career. The 15-year-old prodigy is yet to make his official first team debut but did feature for Michael Carrick's side during pre-season.
Gabriel has regularly trained alongside the senior squad following his outstanding performances for United's U18's last season, netting 26 goals in 29 appearances. He recently bagged a hat-trick against Sabah in the UEFA Youth League and appeared to have a clear pathway into the first team.
However, Gabriel's future is now in doubt after he submitted a request to have his registration cancelled, though United have yet to accept it. United still believe the situation can be resolved but the club's chances of keeping hold of their academy gem could be complicated as the forward approaches his 16th birthday next month.
As he is eligible for a European passport, Gabriel could potentially move to clubs on the continent, unlike British players, who must wait until they reach 18. Here, MEN Sport examines some of the biggest stories surrounding the team.
JJ Gabriel exit fear
United fear Gabriel could exploit a transfer loophole to engineer a departure from Old Trafford after requesting to be released from his contract. The youngster would be unable to join a rival Premier League club until the season ends unless United agree to terminate his deal, though a move to an overseas side remains a possibility.
Should Gabriel hold an Irish passport, he would be eligible to sign for a European club once he reaches the age of 16 on October 6. His father Joe O'Cearuill represented the Republic of Ireland during his playing days.
United are exploring whether the club can stop Gabriel from moving abroad, with the regulations remaining unclear, although any transfer would require FIFA's approval. Premier League rules prevent under-17 players from signing professional contracts, while academy players must be at least 16 before agreeing to a scholarship.
Despite this, United continue to hold discussions over resolving the matter with Gabriel. The situation is understood to have stemmed from the highly-rated youngster's omission from United's 'A' list for their Champions League squad, which prevented him from featuring in last week's victory over Sabah.
JJ Gabriel of Manchester United
JJ Gabriel has requested to cancel his Manchester United registration(Image: Manchester United/Manchester United via Getty Images)
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Four transfer options emerge
Following his request to end his United contract, Gabriel has reportedly attracted attention from four major clubs. While the club are yet to accept his request, the teenage talent would have no shortage of potential suitors.
According to The Athletic, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich are among the clubs targeting the United youngster. Spanish heavyweights Real Madrid are reported to have scouted Gabriel and were impressed by his recent outing against Sabah in the UEFA Youth League.
Meanwhile, United retain the option to reject or contest Gabriel's request to leave, though it remains uncertain whether a move abroad would be permitted. Premier League rules state: "During your child's registration period, their registration may only be cancelled if everyone agrees (the club, player and their parent/carer)."
The rules add: "If the parties don't agree, then any person involved can also ask the Premier League to provide a binding decision on a termination request by making a written application providing full reasons for the request."