Real Madrid reach verbal agreement with Manchester United youngster JJ Gabriel

Real Madrid have reached a preliminary verbal agreement with Manchester United youngster JJ Gabriel as they move closer to signing the 16-year-old, according to Sky Sport Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg.

The Spanish club are now leading the race for the teenager after becoming the closest to completing a deal. However, no formal contracts have been signed, leaving Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain monitoring the situation in case there is a further change.

The current plan is for Gabriel to leave Manchester United next January, with the transfer scheduled to be completed during 2027. His European Union passport is understood to be an important factor in the proposed move.

Bayern Munich have remained in contact with the player, but Sky reports that the German club are no longer among the leading contenders. Real Madrid’s financial offer and their progress in negotiations have put them in the strongest position.

The agreement with Gabriel is described as verbal and preliminary, meaning the transfer has not yet been finalised. The continued interest from Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain also means the situation remains open until contracts are signed.