Real Madrid are edging closer to winning the race to sign Manchester United’s JJ Gabriel, beating European giants including Barcelona, sources have told us.
Madrid believed they were in a favourable position from the start of the pursuit, and in the last few hours their optimism has grown.
Gabriel, 16, had been training in Barcelona for weeks with a personal trainer while he waited to resolve his future. He is now in Madrid.
Earlier reports and United’s stance
We reported in September that Gabriel and his representatives had asked to leave United. The Premier League side insisted at the time that they would not facilitate his departure. We also reported that Madrid, Barcelona and other major clubs were paying close attention to the situation.
Sources say United believe representatives of Gabriel held at least one meeting with an unnamed club last summer without their knowledge.
According to sources, United will consider legal action if they believe illegal approaches were made while Gabriel was under contract at Old Trafford.
Madrid’s plans
Madrid intensified their negotiations when the player turned 16 on October 6, and sources say everything is now on track for Gabriel to sign with the club. Madrid’s plan is for him to join their second team, Castilla, who play in the division of Spanish football. He would also play in the UEFA Youth League.