Real Madrid keen on Man Utd forward Gabriel, 15
Manchester United academy player JJ Gabriel has formally requested to leave the club, sparking interest from major European teams including Real Madrid. The club is currently challenging the request while the player remains absent from training.
Why it matters
The situation highlights the intense competition for young talent in global football and the complexities of academy player contracts and pathways.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, JJ Gabriel has told Manchester United he wants to leave
Real Madrid are among the clubs trying to sign Manchester United academy player JJ Gabriel.
Earlier this week, the 15-year-old sent United formal notice he wants to cancel his registration with immediate effect, but the club can challenge the request.
It is understood a number of major teams across Europe, including Barcelona, Paris St-Germain and Bayern Munich, have a firm interest in the forward, but multiple sources have described Real's efforts to sign him as strong.
The Spanish side want to recruit the teenager immediately and position him in Real Madrid Castilla - the club's recognised reserve team.
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