Real Madrid concerns emerge over proposed deal for Manchester United teenager JJ Gabriel

Real Madrid are close to completing a deal for Manchester United teenager JJ Gabriel, but concerns within the Spanish club have emerged over the player’s family environment and the way his professional career is being managed.

According to Samuel Luckhurst, writing in The Sun, some Real Madrid officials are monitoring the influence of Joe Ackroyd, Gabriel’s father. The 16-year-old’s father is regarded by figures at the club as a demanding presence in decisions concerning his son’s future.

The report says Ackroyd has become involved in disagreements on social media relating to Gabriel’s football development. Those interventions have attracted attention within Real Madrid, while the club has also noted the ambitious public comments made by the young player.

Gabriel has said openly that his biggest ambition is to win the Ballon d’Or. The Sun reports that the statement has caused some reservations at Real Madrid, particularly because of the intense media attention already surrounding a player who is only 16.

Manchester United’s efforts to keep Gabriel

Manchester United made significant efforts to persuade Gabriel to remain at Old Trafford. The club reportedly offered his family a private box at its future new stadium and proposed giving him the number 77 shirt as part of a plan to build his personal brand.

United also promised to include Gabriel in the squad for their match against Brighton. However, the teenager told the club that he wanted to leave before that fixture took place.

The proposed transfer could be completed for compensation of no more than £350,000, with the payment going to Manchester United. That figure would represent a modest return for a player widely viewed as one of the outstanding prospects of his generation.

Real Madrid are continuing to work towards finalising the move, although several procedures remain before the agreement can be completed. Manchester United, meanwhile, are considering possible legal action connected with Gabriel’s departure.

The fixture information accompanying the report lists Real Madrid against Celta Vigo in La Liga on 21 November 2026. It also lists Liverpool against Manchester United in the Premier League on 22 November 2026.