Real Madrid are increasingly confident of signing Manchester United wonderkid JJ Gabriel, but the Spanish giants must wait for the 16-year-old to make his final decision.
According to AS, Real Madrid have submitted an offer to the young forward and informed Manchester United of their interest, with his future expected to become clearer soon.
Notably, the JJ Gabriel transfer race also involves Barcelona and Bayern Munich, both of whom are interested in securing one of Europe’s most highly regarded young prospects.
However, despite previously training in Catalonia, recent reports suggest Gabriel is leaning towards a move to Real Madrid.
JJ Gabriel to Real Madrid: Why Los Blancos are confident
Real Madrid began exploring a potential deal several weeks ago, first assessing the legal requirements for Gabriel to leave England and move to Spain.
The forward turned 16 in early October, while his Cypriot passport and Irish family background have been considered as part of the club’s examination of the regulations governing international transfers involving minors.
The next step was to contact Manchester United to understand Gabriel’s contractual situation and relationship with the English club.
Real Madrid have sent an offer to JJ Gabriel. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
Real Madrid have kept United’s management informed of their interest and willingness to negotiate a transfer fee.
The Spanish side have now made their offer to Gabriel and his representatives.
Real Madrid believe they have completed the necessary groundwork, while also establishing a financial limit for the proposed deal, but they have not received an official response confirming his decision
Real Madrid face Barcelona and Bayern Munich
Manchester United are keen to retain Gabriel and are reluctant to lose him, particularly to another Premier League club.
However, interest from Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich has placed the teenager at the centre of a major European transfer battle.
Bayern have been particularly active in their pursuit, although there is no clear indication that Gabriel is preparing to move to Germany.
Real Madrid are waiting for JJ Gabriel’s response. (Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images)
Barcelona also remain interested, but Real Madrid’s confidence has increased amid suggestions that the youngster prefers a move to the Spanish capital.
JJ Gabriel salary demand could influence Real Madrid transfer
Gabriel is said to be seeking a salary of €1 million from whichever club signs him.
That figure could be key in negotiations, especially given his age and Real Madrid’s decision to cap its financial commitment.
For Real Madrid, they view Gabriel as a player with the potential to become an important figure in the future, but they must balance that ambition against their financial limits.
Real Madrid now have to wait for Gabriel’s final decision. Their offer is on the table, Manchester United have been informed, and the club believes they have made their position clear.
Until the teenager responds, however, a transfer to Santiago Bernabeu cannot be closed.