Manchester United brace for JJ Gabriel exit as Portugal U‑17 talent targets spot

JJ Gabriel has been linked with a move away from Manchester United, and the club are now resigned to his exit while lining up a Portugal Under‑17 international as a possible replacement, reports say.

Gabriel’s rise and sudden departure

The 15‑year‑old has been hailed as one of United’s brightest prospects, scoring a hat‑trick in one half on his UEFA Youth League debut against FC Sabah Under‑19s. Yet, shortly after that performance, reports emerged that Gabriel told the club he wanted to leave Old Trafford to continue his youth career elsewhere.

Initial reports suggested Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the United hierarchy would do everything possible to convince Gabriel and his family that Old Trafford was the right place for his development. chief football correspondent Alex Crook said a “key deadline” of two weeks was set to persuade the youngster to stay.

United’s search for a successor

Crook now claims the club have accepted that Gabriel is leaving, with a move to Barcelona or Real Madrid most likely, and that United are “scouring Europe for potential replacements”.

One option highlighted is RC Lens talent Mezian Mesloub, who already plays for the Portugal Under‑17s and has made first‑team and Champions League appearances. United’s recruitment department has reportedly scouted the attacking midfielder extensively.

Rooney reflects on the youngster’s ambitions

Former United captain Wayne Rooney revealed that Gabriel has received “special treatment” at the club for years, but insisted the youngster has always wanted to play in Spain.

Speaking on the latest episode of Stick to United, Rooney said: “I’ve seen JJ grow up, he’s been in Kai’s team throughout the years… there’s been a desire to go and play probably in Spain.” He added that United have done “absolutely everything” to keep him, but that the desire to move abroad has been known for some time.

Rooney also questioned whether Gabriel is even a Manchester United fan, noting talk of a Spanish move since the player was about 12 or 13. He warned that keeping players who do not want to stay “sends the wrong message” to those who do.

With Gabriel’s future uncertain, United face the challenge of replacing a highly‑rated youth talent while maintaining the morale of their academy cohort.