Manchester United teenager JJ Gabriel has asked to leave the club, with his representatives submitting formal notice seeking the immediate cancellation of his registration.
The request would enable the 15-year-old to become a free agent, although the situation is not regarded as irretrievable. United are understood to be mystified by the decision and hopeful that an agreement can still be reached.
Gabriel’s move has come as a surprise at Carrington. He was involved in Michael Carrick’s first-team plans during pre-season and was in line to feature in Wednesday night’s Carabao Cup tie against Brighton.
The teenager made his first-team debut in pre-season, coming on for Bryan Mbeumo during the match against Atletico Madrid. Questions about his future emerged several days ago when he removed Manchester United-related content from his Instagram account.
Gabriel joined United’s academy at the age of 11 and is regarded as one of the club’s outstanding young prospects. Last season, he became the youngest recipient of the Jimmy Murphy Young Player of the Year award after scoring more than 20 goals for the Under-18s.
Manchester City have previously been reported to have shown interest in Gabriel, while Arsenal, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich have also been linked with the forward.
Premier League regulations state that a youth registration can be cancelled only when the club, player and parent or carer agree. If no agreement is reached, the Premier League can make a binding decision.
Gabriel will turn 16 on October 6, meaning he cannot sign a scholarship agreement until then. He will not be able to sign a professional contract until he turns 17.
United cannot simply deregister him without the relevant process being followed, leaving the club with time to try to resolve the dispute.
