Real Madrid Among Clubs Tracking JJ Gabriel

Real Madrid are reportedly among the clubs interested in Manchester United academy prospect JJ Gabriel as the 15-year-old considers the next step in his career.

Gabriel has emerged as one of the most highly rated young players at Manchester United and has attracted attention from several major European clubs. The Guardian reports that Real Madrid are currently leading the race for the teenager after he decided to cancel his registration with Manchester United.

Barcelona and Bayern Munich are also understood to have followed Gabriel's progress, while reports have linked other leading clubs with the forward.

Gabriel's situation at United has changed significantly in recent days. The teenager had been progressing rapidly through the academy and had already trained with the first team.

He was also included in Michael Carrick's pre-season plans earlier this summer and featured in a friendly against Atlético Madrid.

His development has attracted considerable attention because of his performances against older players. BBC Sport previously reported that Gabriel had already made his mark with United's Under-18 side despite his young age, while Carrick described him as a “big talent”.

The current situation could now see Gabriel leave Old Trafford before making a competitive senior appearance for the club.

According to The Guardian, Gabriel's Irish passport could also make a move to a European club more straightforward under the relevant regulations. Real Madrid could potentially offer him a pathway through Castilla as part of his development.

United had hoped to retain the youngster and continue his development at the club, but his decision to end his registration has opened the door to a possible move.

For now, Real Madrid's reported interest adds another major chapter to the increasingly high-profile situation surrounding one of Manchester United's most closely watched academy prospects.