JJ Gabriel's Future: Bayern Munich and Real Madrid Target Manchester United Prodigy

Bayern Munich have moved to the front of the queue for Manchester United prodigy JJ Gabriel, with the teenager understood to have told the club he wants out and is not expected to pull on their shirt again, according to reports in England.

The Sun and the Manchester Evening News both say talks have already taken place between Gabriel’s camp and European giants Bayern Munich and Real Madrid as the 15-year-old explores a move away from Old Trafford.

At just 15, Gabriel cannot yet be formally represented by an agent, but super-agent Ali Barat and his agency, Epic Sports, are heavily involved in the process and are seen as favourites to take him on once he turns 16. Their role in opening the door to Bayern and Real has placed them at the heart of one of the most closely watched youth sagas in Europe.

Bayern have not exactly been subtle in their admiration. Sporting director Christoph Freund publicly hailed Gabriel as an “exceptional talent” at a press conference last week, while stopping short of discussing any potential deal.

“I don't talk about players who are under contract with other clubs. We know the player because he's very talented. He's an exceptional talent. I can't say anything more about that,” Freund said.

For now, the message is diplomatic. The interest, unmistakable.