Report: Real Madrid boost hopes of signing JJ Gabriel ahead of Barcelona

Real Madrid are increasingly optimistic about beating Barcelona to the signing of young Manchester United player JJ Gabriel, with talks progressing ahead of the January transfer window, a report says.

According to the report, Gabriel has not featured for Manchester United since September, after asking for his registration to be cancelled amid uncertainty over his future. The club rejected his request and held talks with him and his representatives to persuade him to stay, but their efforts did not change his stance, while the player’s camp is working to find him a new club in January. Information cited in the report suggests that a move outside England appeals to Gabriel and his family.

Real Madrid and Barcelona are considered the leading contenders for the player, while Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund have held positive talks with his representatives. Real Madrid believe its academy and loan pathways could help persuade the player, who is said to want a clear route to the first team. But the report indicates that significant talks are still needed before an agreement can be reached, while Gabriel’s representatives are aiming to settle on his destination in January.