Real Madrid edge closer to JJ Gabriel as Carrick’s United fight fails

Real Madrid are set to finalise a transfer for 16‑year‑old attacker JJ Gabriel within the next two weeks, a move that will see the teenager leave Manchester United, where manager Michael Carrick has been fighting to retain him despite his efforts.

Gabriel told United back in September he wanted his registration cancelled with immediate effect. United rejected the request and tried to convince him and his camp to make a U‑turn. Carrick is set to be hugely disappointed by the failed attempt to keep the youngster.

Real Madrid’s pursuit intensifies

Transfer insider Graeme Bailey reported that Real Madrid were among the clubs keen on Gabriel. Gabriel turned 16 in October, meaning he can sign for a foreign club from January 2027. On 1 November Bailey said the Spanish giants were confident of securing Gabriel in the January window.

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On 5 November it was reported that Madrid and Jude Bellingham’s camp had spoken to Gabriel’s representatives and recommended a move to the Bernabeu. Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano later said it was only a matter of time before Gabriel became a Madrid player.

Spanish journalist Jorge C Picon claimed United executives and Carrick have failed in their quest to retain Gabriel. Picon wrote on X at 10:13 am on 8 November that Gabriel’s camp expects the move to be finalised next week or the week after. He added United officials, even Carrick, tried to persuade him to stay, but to no avail. Picon noted that at Real Madrid Gabriel will sign his first professional contract, something he could not do with United until October 2027.

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