JJ Gabriel targets transfer to Premier League rival after Man Utd exit

JJ Gabriel has asked to leave Manchester United (Getty)

JJ Gabriel is considering a move to a Premier League rival after asking to leave Manchester United , according to reports.

The 15-year-old is widely regarded as one of the brightest young prospects in world football but is yet to make a first-team appearance for United.

Gabriel has trained with Michael Carrick ’s squad on several occasions and featured in United’s pre-season game against Atletico Madrid in Stockholm in August.

Last week, Gabriel scored a hat-trick during his UEFA Youth League debut against Sabah and United had earmarked the young forward to make his first-team debut against Brighton in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday night.

However, Gabriel’s future is now in doubt after he asked to leave Old Trafford immediately .

Gabriel is not tied to a contract with United but will be eligible to sign a scholarship deal with the club when he turns 16 on October 6.

JJ Gabriel scored a hat-trick on his UEFA Youth League debut against Sabah last week (Shutterstock)

According to talkSPORT , Gabriel has received interest from two Premier League clubs, one of which is Chelsea.

The 15-year-old is also said to be open to signing for another Premier League club, although no move has been formally lined up.

United, meanwhile, are understood to be still holding out hope that they can convince Gabriel to remain at Old Trafford.

Gabriel has shone at youth level (Getty)

Barcelona have already stepped up their efforts to sign Gabriel , who was named United’s Under-18 player of the year following an impressive season.

‘JJ is one of the boys. He’s obviously got a really big talent. He’s trained with us quite a bit and is getting experience all the time,’ Carrick said last month.

‘He’s physically adapting to each step that he makes, and we’re just continuing his development.’