Report: Real Madrid wary of JJ Gabriel’s comments as he nears Manchester United exit

Some of JJ Gabriel’s comments have raised concerns at Real Madrid as the 16-year-old nears a move from Manchester United to the Spanish club, according to a report. The possible deal remains the subject of reports, and the source does not say it has been completed.

Gabriel asked in September to have his registration with United ended and has not trained with the team since, instead following an individual programme. The report said the player and his family wanted him to have first-team opportunities sooner, while the club’s attempt to persuade him to stay was unsuccessful.

In an interview with Marca, Gabriel said he preferred Real Madrid to Barcelona and that his dream was to win the Ballon d’Or. According to a report by Samuel Luckhurst, some Madrid officials were surprised by his comment about his ambition and were also cautious about the reputation of his father, Joe O’Keerwell, given his public disputes over his son’s development. The report added that sources at Manchester United say they have had no discussions with Real Madrid or the player’s family about his departure.