Manchester United are expected to lose young forward JJ Gabriel, with Real Madrid said to have made a significant offer for the 16-year-old. The Spanish giants are reportedly willing to agree to the terms presented by Gabriel's agent, Ali Barat.
The deal is reported to be worth €10million (£8.4m) and includes a three-year contract plus bonuses. Gabriel, an academy product, was offered a scholarship contract by United despite his representatives requesting his registration be terminated.
Gabriel trains alone in Spain
Gabriel has trained alone in a town near Barcelona while attempting to resolve his future. Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich have closely monitored the situation, with the forward's desire to depart Old Trafford appearing steadfast.
According to Sport, United are resigned to Gabriel's exit, and the forward's decision over his future is close. Real Madrid's willingness to meet Gabriel's demands could prove an important step, with Barcelona said to be reluctant to engage in a bidding war.
Bayern and Barcelona interest
Bayern, despite their interest, have failed to usurp the two La Liga clubs at the front of the minds of Gabriel's camp. However, Barcelona sporting director Deco has denied the club's interest in Gabriel.
With a move to Europe on the horizon, United stand to lose out. If Gabriel moved to a Premier League rival, the club would anticipate receiving more than £3million plus a 20% sell-on clause.
Compensation and eligibility
An exit to the continent leaves United with less protection. Based on official FIFA compensation figures for a Category I academy, United would be entitled to approximately £350,000 for Gabriel's services.
Players from England are usually not permitted to join a European side before their 18th birthday following the United Kingdom's withdrawal from the European Union. However, Gabriel appears to be eligible for a European passport.
His father, Joe O'Cearuill, played twice for the Republic of Ireland national team, qualifying through his Irish mother, and also has a Trinidadian father. Gabriel's mother is of Cypriot heritage, providing the youngster with two routes to an EU passport.
