Real Madrid are closing in on signing JJ Gabriel, with Manchester United prepared to consider legal action if the club believe any rules have been broken. Madrid have offered the 16-year-old forward a multi-year contract and, subject to final talks, hope to bring him to the Bernabéu in January.
Gabriel is registered with United's academy until the end of the season, and United have yet to be contacted by the player's camp or Real Madrid about the proposed move, according to The Guardian.
Madrid intend to sign Gabriel via a Fifa loophole that allows clubs in the EU to secure young players on professional contracts if they have an EU passport, which Gabriel is eligible to acquire through both his parents. Fifa would have to sign this off, and United are on alert regarding any potential breach of regulations. A compensation fee would be due to United if Gabriel joined Madrid or any other team. Madrid have been approached for comment.
Gabriel walked out on United in September and is believed to be training in Spain. A move to Madrid offers the prospect of progression to senior football via their B team, Castilla, who play in the regionalised Spanish third tier. Last season he became the youngest winner of United's academy player of the year award and was the Premier League's under-18 player of the season.