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JJ Gabriel development sparks rule change demand as Man Utd await confirmation
JJ Gabriel, the 16-year-old Manchester United prospect, has reached a verbal agreement to join Real Madrid after informing United of his desire to leave Old Trafford in September.
Gabriel's entourage reportedly grew frustrated with his lack of first-team integration, specifically seeking appearances in a Champions League fixture against Sabah FK and a Carabao Cup tie against Brighton.
Paul Merson criticized the rule allowing 16-year-olds to join overseas clubs, stating, "This rule's got to change," while United is due training compensation expected to be around £100,000-£300,000.
Ryan Giggs urged Gabriel to reconsider his decision, suggesting he follow Arsenal's Max Dowman's developmental pathway and telling him, "You're on the right track."
United retains the player's registration despite the formal exit notification submitted in September, and the club is reportedly considering legal action against any European team that completes the signing.
Customsman for many years, Real Madrid is in the process of attracting a new prodigy: JJ Gabriel, considered one of the most promising players of his generation