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

Manchester United's 15-year-old talent JJ Gabriel is currently in Catalonia alongside his family, engaging in advanced negotiations with both Barcelona and Real Madrid, while Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain are also monitoring his availability. The teenager recently submitted an official request to be de-registered by United, right after netting three goals during a 5-0 UEFA Youth League triumph over Sabah last Thursday.

Although contracted through the conclusion of the current campaign, Gabriel has stepped away from club training sessions and was omitted from the latest England youth rosters despite earlier appearances for the under-17 side.

A regulatory exception could allow the forward to sign with a continental outfit upon turning 16 on October 6, provided he secures a European passport courtesy of his parents' lineage, though any completed transfer requires FIFA authorization. United head coach Michael Carrick publicly addressed the standoff on Friday, urging that Gabriel's circumstances be managed with care and privacy away from excessive public scrutiny to ensure the teenager's welfare.