Calls for rule change as Real Madrid eyes Manchester United teen JJ Gabriel
Real Madrid is in verbal talks to sign 16-year-old JJ Gabriel, prompting former player Paul Merson to urge a review of transfer rules that allow young English academy players to move abroad.
Real Madrid has reportedly reached a verbal agreement to sign 16-year-old forward JJ Gabriel while he remains registered with Manchester United, sparking debate over the transfer rules that permit young English academy players to join foreign clubs.
Manchester United offered Gabriel a scholarship earlier this year and would be entitled to training compensation of roughly £100,000-£300,000 if the move proceeds. The club is also considering legal action against any European side that signs the teenager.
Former England international Paul Merson told Sky Sports News that the existing rule “has to change” because it allows a player developed by United to leave for a club abroad. > "This kid's a good player, he's a very good player. He could be a superstar, top player; Man United will be gutted. This rule's got to change… he's going to Real Madrid, the biggest club in the world."
Merson added that similar cases have occurred, citing Rio Ngumoha’s departure from Chelsea, and argued that academies invest heavily in youth development only to see players leave abroad.
Gabriel joined United’s academy at age 11 after spells with Arsenal, Chelsea and West Ham, and remains registered with the club despite a formal notification submitted in September requesting its cancellation.