Real Madrid’s Mourinho moves in on United’s teenage prodigy

At Manchester United’s Carrington training ground, 15‑year‑old forward JJ Gabriel handed in a notice to cancel his academy registration, prompting Real Madrid – led by manager Jose Mourinho – to open talks with United about the teenager’s future, TEAMtalk reports immediately.

Mourinho’s Madrid open talks

Transfer insider Graeme Bailey told TEAMtalk on August 13 that Manchester United were uneasy about Gabriel’s future. The Red Devils’ hierarchy had already noted Chelsea’s keen interest in the 15‑year‑old attacker. United’s concerns grew after the teenager lodged a formal request to cancel his academy registration.

United battle to retain the Irish‑born striker

Gabriel’s notice, submitted last week, seeks immediate free‑agent status, meaning he could leave without a professional contract. Manchester United – known as Man Utd – chief executive Omar Berrada and sporting director Jason Wilcox have been drawn into negotiations, aiming to persuade the youngster and his agent to reverse course. Graeme Bailey later reported that the club remains unwilling to relinquish the prodigy.

Bailey added that both Real Madrid and Barcelona have already held positive discussions with Gabriel, who holds an Irish passport and can therefore move abroad when he turns 16 next month. The Spanish capital’s training complex Valdebebas has also contacted United, confirming its awareness of the situation.

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

Real Madrid, who appointed Jose Mourinho as first‑team manager this summer, are in direct contact with United over Gabriel, who can operate as a striker, left‑sided forward or attacking midfielder. Mourinho’s side are reportedly studying the potential deal and any associated risks.

Spanish daily AS reported on September 20 that Gabriel’s talent has attracted several of Europe’s biggest clubs, and his decision to leave United days before his 16th birthday has set alarm bells ringing at both Real Madrid and Barcelona. The paper noted his Irish background could facilitate a move away from England in the coming days, and that recent rumours placed him in Barcelona before an offer was made to Real Madrid.

Crucially, Gabriel does not yet hold a professional contract with United, which simplifies a possible departure under FIFA regulations.

JJ Gabriel opens path to Europe after leaving Manchester United

Bailey explained that October 6 is the pivotal date, as Gabriel turns 16 and the EU nationality removes many of the restrictions United could rely on. “They retain the right to challenge Gabriel’s request to cancel his academy registration, potentially making an English move difficult in the short term,” he said, adding that the European option becomes actionable subject to FIFA safeguards.