LaLiga1 hour ago1 minute read

Real Madrid Close In on Manchester United Talent JJ Gabriel

Real Madrid are close to signing 16 year old JJ Gabriel from Manchester United, beating European rivals to the deal.

The EagleEyeOdds deskWritten from the match data, checked against our model before it goes out

Madrid leading the race

Real Madrid are moving closer to completing a deal for Manchester United talent JJ Gabriel. The Spanish side look set to win the race for the young player, beating out interest from Barcelona and other major European clubs.

Madrid felt confident about their chances right from the start of the pursuit. That optimism has grown even stronger over the last few hours. Gabriel is currently in Madrid, having previously spent weeks in Barcelona working with a personal trainer while waiting for his future to be decided.

Dispute at Old Trafford

Gabriel and his representatives asked Manchester United for an exit in September. The Premier League club stated at the time that they would not help make his departure easy. Even so, Madrid, Barcelona and several other top teams kept close tabs on what was happening.

Madrid stepped up their talks once Gabriel turned 16 on Oct. 6. Everything is now lined up for him to sign with the Spanish side. Madrid plan to place him in their second team, Castilla, and also have him play in the UEFA Youth League.

Legal threats and reaction

Manchester United are unhappy with how events have played out. Club officials believe representatives of the 16 year old held at least one meeting with an unnamed club during the summer without United knowing about it.

United are prepared to consider legal action if they believe illegal approaches were made while Gabriel remained under contract at Old Trafford. Wayne Rooney also commented on the situation, calling it disappointing if a top player like Gabriel leaves the club.

What it means for the next game

AEK Athens vs Real Madrid (Champions League, Wed, 04 Nov): AEK Athens win 21%, draw 22%, Real Madrid win 58%; expected goals 1.25 to 2.16. Our safest pick: Over 1.5 goals.

Valencia vs Real Madrid (LaLiga, Sat, 07 Nov): Valencia win 12%, draw 17%, Real Madrid win 71%; expected goals 0.98 to 2.53. Our safest pick: Real Madrid to win.