Real Madrid reach verbal agreement for JJ Gabriel
The Madrid club has moved closer to signing the 16-year-old Manchester United talent, though the deal is not yet finalized.
Джей Джей Габріел, gettyimages
Real Madrid have reached a verbal principle agreement to sign 16-year-old Manchester United forward JJ Gabriel. The Spanish club is currently leading the race for one of the most promising young talents in English football and is pushing to finalize the deal as soon as possible.
According to journalist Florian Plettenberg, both parties have reached a preliminary agreement. However, no official documents have been signed yet, meaning the transfer is not guaranteed. It is expected that Gabriel could leave Manchester United in January 2027. A key factor for the move is the player obtaining an EU passport, which would resolve legal issues regarding the transfer of a minor between clubs in different countries.
The situation intensified in September when the player and his entourage informed the Manchester United leadership of their desire to leave. The English club refused to terminate his registration immediately and attempted to convince the young forward to continue his career in their academy, but failed to reach an agreement. Renowned agent Ali Barat is representing the player's interests and has been exploring options outside of England, with Spain being one of the most preferred destinations.
JJ Gabriel is regarded as one of the most talented players in the United academy. He has attracted attention for his technique, speed, dribbling, and clinical finishing, earning him the unofficial nickname 'Little Messi'.