Manchester United have made a new scholarship offer to 16-year-old academy prospect JJ Gabriel despite reports that the forward has asked to leave the club.
Gabriel has not trained at Carrington in recent weeks amid a breakdown in negotiations over his future. United’s latest proposal is intended both to keep open the possibility of him remaining at Old Trafford and to protect the club’s position should he depart.
Manchester United offer JJ Gabriel new deal
The teenager’s representatives are understood to have been seeking a financial package worth more than €1 million a year, equivalent to about £830,000 annually or £16,000 a week.
There have also been reports that Gabriel’s camp wanted greater assurances over his route into United’s first team. The club has previously sought to emphasise his importance to its long-term plans, with former manager Sir Alex Ferguson reportedly involved in attempts to persuade him to stay.
United’s formal offer could allow Gabriel to reconsider his position. It would also strengthen the club’s claim to compensation if he moves to another English side.
United could reportedly be entitled to more than £3 million, along with additional sell-on provisions, if the transfer takes place domestically and the compensation is determined by a tribunal.
An overseas move would be expected to bring a considerably smaller return. Under the applicable international training compensation framework, United could receive about £350,000 if Gabriel leaves for a club abroad.
European clubs interested in JJ Gabriel
Gabriel’s situation has attracted interest from several of Europe’s leading clubs, with Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona and Bayern Munich all reported to be monitoring the forward.
United’s latest offer therefore represents an attempt to repair strained relations while ensuring the club is protected financially if the academy prospect ultimately chooses to continue his career elsewhere.
