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JJ Gabriel’s prospective transfer away from Manchester United is reported to have seen the involvement of Real Madrid superstar Jude Bellingham. Gabriel has been heavily linked with a move away from the Red Devils for some time, with growing expectation that a switch to Madrid will happen in the near future. Reports emerged back in September that Gabriel had made clear his wish to leave United, and even have his registration cancelled, which would have seen the 16-year-old leave the club as a free agent. United, though, have not met these demands, but there has continued to be speculation that a departure from Old Trafford is the most likely outcome.
Madrid have surfaced as the side most likely to secure the 16-year-old, with reports surfacing this week that an agreement is nearing completion for him to transfer to the La Liga heavyweights during the January transfer window.
There has now been a further development regarding Madrid's pursuit of Gabriel and how Bellingham has been engaged in attempting to facilitate the transfer.
Spanish publication Sport have stated that Bellingham has played a "significant role" in seeking to persuade Gabriel to join Madrid. The report proceeds to suggest that England midfielder Bellingham will assume the position of Gabriel's "mentor" once the teenager formally completes the move to the Spanish capital.
Should Gabriel ultimately depart United, it will reportedly be a considerable period before the playmaker will appear for Jose Mourinho's senior squad. Instead, the aforementioned report suggests that Gabriel will actually turn out for Madrid's second string, Real Madrid Castilla.
Despite speculation indicating that Gabriel is on the verge of joining Madrid, it's believed that United have been caught off guard by claims that a move is imminent. It's also believed that United are yet to receive any approach from Madrid regarding a deal for Gabriel, despite suggestions otherwise.
United would be entitled to compensation should Gabriel ultimately complete a switch to Madrid, with indications that the sum is anticipated to be merely in the region of £100,000-£300,000. This comes despite reports which have indicated that Madrid would be prepared to pay up to approximately £8.5million in order to secure Gabriel's signature from United.