Man United fear they are losing 'the next Lionel Messi' as likely destination revealed
Manchester United fear they may be losing the next Lionel Messi as JJ Gabriel closes in on an exit, sources have told Football Insider.
The 15-year-old has made headlines in recent days after demanding to leave Old Trafford and to have his registration cancelled as a result of a lack of playing time.
Despite his young age, the attacking midfielder had hoped to feature in the Premier League this season after making his first senior bow under Michael Carrick in pre-season.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Gabriel is still hold in high regard by the Red Devils, where he has been dubbed "Kid Messi".
However, a number of elite clubs across European football have been placed on high alert by his unrest, with the likes of Real Madird and Paris Saint-Germain keen.
Man United had hoped to keep hold of Gabriel long-term, and were taking their time managing his development, but their plans have now been thrown out of the window.
Where is JJ Gabriel's most likely destination?
Football Insider revealed on 18 September that a number of Premier League clubs are keeping a close eye in Gabriel's situation and could look to lure him in.
However, the teenager is unlikely to remain in the Premier League and instead is eyeing a move to a European club, with any English club likely to struggle to land an agreement.
Man United had been reluctant to lose Gabriel given his clear talent, but with a move now increasingly likely, they will have little option but to see him leave.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "Obviously, JJ Gabriel is one of the most hotly tipped young talents in world football right now.
"He has been branded 'Kid Messi' at Man United because of his exploits for their Under-18s last season when he finished as their top scorer and helped them reach the FA Youth Cup final.
"He’s expected to go on and enjoy a hugely successful career. Manchester United hoped it would be with them, but it does look like he is keen to move on for a new challenge.
"Look, when you've got such a young talent like this, you're going to have all the best clubs across Europe interested in him. Real Madrid have been strongly linked, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, PSG all interested."
How much money will Man United make from Gabriel?
Man United are now preparing for Gabriel to move on despite their high hopes for his development, with a move to another European giant likely to go through in the near future.
As a result, questions have been asked about the finances involved in any departure given the player's age and the fact he cannot sign a professional contract.
Former Man City financial adviser Stefan Borson told Football Insider that Man United will earn a compensation fee from Gabriel's exit for the time spent training at the club.
However, that compensation fee is unlikely to be substantial, with a likely fee of about £100,000 to £150,000 if he moves to a Premier League rival.
Chelsea and Man City are among his English admirers, but he is likely move to Europe with a club, with Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Barcelona and PSG looking to tempt him away.