Man Utd line up 'next Gabriel' as replacement after transfer request made

Manchester United are tracking Valerenga's 15-year-old sensation Gabriel Rajkovic as a potential replacement for JJ Gabriel.

Gabriel, 15, has made it clear he wishes to cancel his registration at United with immediate effect in order become a free agent and sign for another club. Real Madrid and Barcelona are interested in the 2010-born talent, while Chelsea are his preferred destination if he was to remain in England.

Despite this, Gabriel's demand stunned Michael Carrick's side and he was due to be involved in the Carabao Cup squad to face Brighton last Wednesday. If he had featured, he would have become the club's youngest-ever player, eclipsing David Gaskell, who was 16 years and 19 days old when he debuted back in 1956.

Although United believe the sotuation can be resolved with Gabriel still having time left on his contract, they are scouting around for a potential replacement in case he leaves. According to The Sun, United are eyeing up a move for Valerenga forward Rajkovic, who is creating a stir around Europe's biggest clubs.

United sent a scout to Oslo to watch Rajkovic in action against Fredrikstad on Sunday and it's believed the Reds are in the race for his signature, with Barcelona among the others looking at a potential deal.

Rajkovic, who made his senior debut as a 14-year-old back in January, has made 14 appearances for Valerenga in the Eliteserien this season, scoring twice and providing one assist.

He netted his first goal for Valerenga in a 2-1 defeat to Bodo/Glimt last month, becoming the second-youngest player to score in Norway's top-flight at 15 years and 166 days, just 15 days older than record-holder Martin Odegaard. Soon after, he scored his second goal in a 2-2 draw against Sarpsborg.

Rajkovic is a left-footed right winger, though he can be used down the middle and on the left. While his preferred foot is his left, he is comfortable with both feet and is capable of playing anywhere across the front line.

Reports in Norway have claimed that he could fetch as much as £16million when sold. That would smash their transfer record, though Rajkovic is unable to move abroad at least until he is 16 in February 2027.

But Rajkovic is thought to be in no rush about leaving Valerenga, having turned down offers to train at major European clubs. Unlike JJ Gabriel, Rajkovic is tied down to a contract until December 2028 at the Oslo club.