Photo via Sky Sports

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

Manchester United prospect JJ Gabriel appears increasingly set to depart after requesting to be de-registered following his three-goal performance in a 5-0 UEFA Youth League victory over Sabah. The 15-year-old attacker and his family have traveled to Barcelona, where negotiation sessions involving both the host club and Real Madrid are progressing, alongside lingering interest from Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain.

While Old Trafford hierarchy sought to retain Gabriel through the conclusion of his term at the end of the campaign, he has stepped away from training and was omitted from the latest England youth rosters despite previously featuring at the under-17 level.

Because of a regulatory exception recognized by FIFA, Gabriel could potentially secure a continental switch once he turns 16 on October 6, contingent on obtaining an EU passport via his parents and clearing governing body ratification. Reacting to the development, Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick emphasized the necessity of shielding the young forward from intense public scrutiny and prioritizing his personal well-being, while television pundit Paul Merson noted that losing the teenager would serve as a major setback for the club.