
Former Manchester United academy graduate Danny Simpson has sent a clear warning to JJ Gabriel amid rumours he's trying to force an exit.
Following a summer of hype, it was widely expected that Man United wonderkid Gabriel would be handed his senior debut during the Carabao Cup third round clash with Brighton at Old Trafford.
The likes of Real Madrid have been linked with the talented 15-year-old, but former academy player Simpson has warned the youngster against the move and revealed what he should do instead.
READ MORE: Michael Carrick finally addresses JJ Gabriel situation after Man United crash out of Carabao Cup
JJ Gabriel would be 'stupid' to join Real Madrid
Although a move within the Premier League remains possible, a loophole relating to his dual nationality could allow European clubs to sign him before his 16th birthday.
Advert
Therefore, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich are believed to be the frontrunners to sign the United youngster.
Real Madrid appear to be the favourites of the bunch, but Simpson believes it would be a disastrous decision.
"The rumour is Real Madrid, I think that would be stupid. How does he think he's got a pathway into the first team at 15, 16 when you've got Vinicius, Mbappe and Diomande," Simpson said speaking exclusively to SPORTbible via Covers.com, which offers a comprehensive guide to the Stake Promo Code Canada.
"And is Jose Mourinho, the type of manager that will bring the kids through? I'm not too sure, I think he likes experience and they change the managers a lot," he added.
Like many United fans, Simpson believes that the saga surronding Gabriel now means that his career at United is already over, and he's suggested that following England star Jude Bellingham's career path through Germany is perhaps the best option for the 15-year-old.
Simpson said: "If you're looking at a pathway, looking at recent history, you have to look at Jude Bellingham.
"I understand the move if you're trying to do what Jude did. Jude left at a similar age and everyone applauded it. His family's amazing, they took him away, they managed him well. So, if they take him to Germany, follow that path, then maybe.
"But Birmingham and Man United are two very different teams, so it isn't quite the same as Jude and there is a pathway at Man Uninted when you've got Kobbie Mainoo, Marcus Rashford playing and he could be a superstar within his own right at Man Utd."
READ MORE: Alejandro Garnacho sends message to JJ Gabriel with bizarre post on social media
Danny Simpson addresses the true reason for JJ Gabriel's United exit
In the days since the bombshell news of Gabriel's demands emerged, it has since been claimed that the exit charge may be led by the youngster's father, Joe O'Cearuill.
And it appears that Simpson agrees that this is the case, as he labelled it "sad" that outside factors are playing such a major role in Gabriel's future.
He said: "I think it's pretty sad on all parts, to be honest. Obviously, I grew up as a United kid, United fan. I know the club's different now, but I only ever wanted to put that Man United shirt on and make my debut. It was like one of the biggest things.
"Even now, aged nearly 40, it was one of the biggest days of my life. And I think he had the opportunity and he's 15, mate, like, you know, what an opportunity that was.
"Obviously, I don't know the ins and outs, but we hear rumours and listen, he has not made this decision to miss training and not be involved in his game. He's not, he's 15, we know that. So, the people around him have made this decision for him and it's pretty sad.
"He's 15, he's a boy, it's unfair and it's a matter of attention that he's getting all over the media.
"On the other hand, from a United point of view, especially with the current results, it doesn't look good that somebody wants to leave. But, if you don't want to be here, leave. If a 15-year-old boy says he doesn't want to stay, let him go."
READ MORE: Roy Keane gives brutally honest verdict on Man Utd/JJ Gabriel saga
Topics: Premier League, Real Madrid, Man Utd, Football, Spotlight