Jude Bellingham has reportedly played a significant role in persuading Manchester United's JJ Gabriel to join Real Madrid, according to Spanish publication Sport. The England midfielder is said to have been engaged in attempting to facilitate the teenager's transfer to the La Liga club.
Gabriel has been heavily linked with a move away from the Red Devils for some time, with growing expectation that a switch to Madrid will happen in the near future. Reports emerged back in September that Gabriel had made clear his wish to leave United, and even have his registration cancelled, which would have seen the 16-year-old leave the club as a free agent.
Gabriel's Move to Madrid Nears Completion
United have not met these demands, but speculation has continued that a departure from Old Trafford is the most likely outcome. Madrid have surfaced as the side most likely to secure the 16-year-old, with reports surfacing this week that an agreement is nearing completion for him to transfer during the January transfer window.
Sport have stated that Bellingham has played a "significant role" in seeking to persuade Gabriel to join Madrid. The report proceeds to suggest that Bellingham will assume the position of Gabriel's "mentor" once the teenager formally completes the move to the Spanish capital.
United Unaware of Imminent Deal
Should Gabriel ultimately depart United, it will reportedly be a considerable period before the playmaker will appear for Jose Mourinho's senior squad. Instead, the report suggests that Gabriel will actually turn out for Madrid's second string, Real Madrid Castilla.
Despite speculation indicating that Gabriel is on the verge of joining Madrid, it's believed that United have been caught off guard by claims that a move is imminent. It's also believed that United are yet to receive any approach from Madrid regarding a deal for Gabriel, despite suggestions otherwise.
Compensation and Fee Details
United would be entitled to compensation should Gabriel ultimately complete a switch to Madrid, with indications that the sum is anticipated to be merely in the region of £100,000-£300,000. This comes despite reports which have indicated that Madrid would be prepared to pay up to approximately £8.5million in order to secure Gabriel's signature from United.
