The bad news just keeps on coming for Manchester United as their difficult start to the season continues.
Sunday’s Manchester derby defeat deflated the fanbase, especially considering the controversial circumstances behind the result.
Then news broke of Bruno Fernandes’ contract talks stalling, and on Tuesday, the club was rocked by the news that their prodigious young talent JJ Gabriel now wants to leave.
Real Madrid look favourites to land the 15-year-old, amid interest from other European heavyweights and Premier League teams.
United have not given up hope of keeping JJ Gabriel
According to The Athletic, the Red Devils have not yet given up on keeping hold of the Carrington product.
In fact, officials are busy trying to change the starlet’s mind as we speak, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe also aware of the issue.
“The matter has come to a head after Gabriel informed United he wants to leave and handed in a letter of de-registration. United have no intention of granting that request and are hopeful a resolution can be found.
“The Premier League club acknowledge he is an exceptional talent and are trying to keep him. Co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is aware of the matter, and United executives are making efforts to persuade Gabriel to stay.
Loophole emerges
“But they are investigating whether they are powerless to halt his exit once he turns 16 on October 6 if he has a European passport.”
While the club would be foolish to allow such a young player to dictate terms, the 20-time English league champions acknowledge what a talent JJ Gabriel is, which is why they are giving it their all.
But they could be rendered powerless as according to the rules, the Old Trafford side cannot offer Gabriel professional terms before he turns 17.
Even scholarship terms can only be agreed when he is 16, which is due next month. Los Blancos are banking on this very loophole.
Real Madrid ready to take advantage
They can sign the England Under-17 international, with JJ holding an Irish passport, making him eligible to move to Spain. Both the player and his family view La Liga as the dream destination.
Michael Carrick‘s reluctance to hand him more minutes during pre-season and United’s decision not to offer him a senior debut so far have been identified as the major reasons behind the wonderkid’s decision to leave.
He was due to be involved against Brighton & Hove Albion in the EFL Cup on Wednesday, but that is now out of the equation.
Feature image Alex Livesey via Getty Images
