Manchester United could face a much bigger problem with JJ Gabriel than simply losing a promising academy player.
According to Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, Gabriel is expected to receive a Cypriot passport soon, provided the process goes to plan. That could potentially allow him to leave United on a free transfer in January.
JJ Gabriel turns 16 today, and his future has already become a major talking point after his representatives asked Manchester United to cancel his youth registration following a dispute over first-team opportunities. He has not trained with the club since September.
The teenager reportedly asked for minutes against Sabah, Brighton and Bournemouth. Eventually, he asked the club to cancel registration, after seemingly seeing no future at Manchester United.
Real Madrid and Barcelona ready huge packages
Plettenberg reports that Real Madrid and Barcelona are currently the most concrete options, with both clubs prepared to offer Gabriel what is described as a massive package involving salary, bonuses and a signing-on fee. Bayern Munich have also held fresh talks, while Paris Saint-Germain are monitoring the situation.
The passport issue could be crucial because FIFA regulations restrict international transfers involving players under 18, although there are exceptions. Gabriel’s potential EU status could therefore open a route to an overseas move once he turns 16. BBC Sport previously reported that he could become eligible to join an EU club if he obtains a qualifying European passport through his family background.
JJ Gabriel turns 16 today.
The situation is a nightmare scenario for United. Gabriel scored 26 goals for the club’s youth teams last season and recently hit a hat-trick in the UEFA Youth League before his self-exile.
After the dispute over playing time, the club now face the possibility of losing one of their biggest academy talents without a major transfer fee.
