Manchester United are weighing up taking regulatory and legal action against anyone who may negotiate and broker JJ Gabriel's exit from Old Trafford, according to The Sun. The 15-year-old has informed United of his wish to cancel his registration with immediate effect to become a free agent.
United were left stunned by Gabriel's decision. He was due to be involved in the Carabao Cup squad to face Brighton last month. Had he featured, the teenage talent would have become the club's youngest-ever player, eclipsing David Gaskell, who was 16 years and 19 days old when he debuted in 1956.
Contract situation and interest from abroad
Despite this, United believe the situation can still be resolved, with Gabriel still having time left on his contract. The 2010-born sensation cannot be de-registered unless all parties agree, but he can negotiate a move abroad once he turns 16 next week, helped by the fact he holds an Irish passport.
If he does end up moving abroad, United would only be entitled to a small compensation fee. Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich are among those interested in signing Gabriel.
Agent and training developments
Gabriel's agent Ali Barat received authorisation from the Football Association (FA) to represent minors after it emerged that the midfielder wanted to quit United. Epic Sports, Barat's agency, managed Denzel Dumfries' move to Real Madrid and Nicolas Jackson's transfer to Aston Villa in the summer. They have since lined up talks with Real Madrid and Bayern for Gabriel's camp.
Gabriel has been training abroad this week after making it clear he does not see a future at United. He has been training at the same Barcelona camp he spent time at before pre-season.
Carrick urges caution
Michael Carrick urged calm when asked about the midfielder last month. He said: "I'll just repeat what I said [earlier this week]: he's a young boy, it's important we don't put anything out here, the exposure and scrutiny we have to be careful. We have to be sensible and think about him. The situation will work itself out."
Gabriel's last appearance for United came in a 5-0 win against Sabah in the UEFA Youth League last month.
