Man United identify immediate JJ Gabriel replacement as new academy star emerges

Manchester United have identified academy star Noah Ajayi as JJ Gabriel's potential long-term replacement.

On September 15, it was revealed that JJ Gabriel had sent his formal notice to Man United and wanted to become a free agent immediately. The 15-year-old later cited United's 'decline' since Sir Alex Ferguson's departure as the 'driving force' behind his desire to leave Old Trafford.

Unsurprisingly, Gabriel has since garnered interest from some of Europe's top clubs, notably Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid, but it remains to be seen where his immediate future lies after establishing himself as one of the world's most promising teenagers.

READ NEXT: Fred changes his mind on former Man United boss Erik ten Hag in savage 'piece of c***' admission

Man United identify Noah Ajayi as potential JJ Gabriel successor

Gabriel cannot sign a scholarship at an English club until he turns 16 in two days (October 6) and would have to wait until his 17th birthday to pen a professional contract.

Crucially, the teenage forward can sign with an agent from Tuesday onwards, and in turn, join an EU-based club through his Irish passport.

United have reportedly already refused to terminate the player’s registration. All three parties – the club, the player and the parent/carer – must agree before a child’s registration can be ripped up.

A future away from Old Trafford is the most likely avenue, having not been seen since scoring a hat-trick in a UEFA Youth League win over Sabah on September 10. But it appears the Red Devils hierarchy are already planning for life without the youngster.

The 13-time Premier League champions have already been linked with multiple players, including Lille wonderkid Mezian Mesloub, though academy star Noah Ajayi is also seen as a potential successor.

Ajayi, a 6ft2 left-winger, played alongside Gabriel in the U18s last season and produced similar levels. The 17-year-old scored nine goals and assisted once in 25 appearances, with his most valuable contribution coming in the Premier League Cup final against Crystal Palace in April.

According to Manchester Evening News, coaches believe that 'Ajayi is a gem' and is viewed as a prospect for the first team, not in the near future, but eventually down the line as he follows the development plan laid out for him.

In addition, the teenager's pace and acceleration are seen as 'huge assets', while his finishing is another strength that has had many feeling excited about his potential.

READ NEXT: Paul Scholes disagrees with Wayne Rooney's take on potential Man City charges punishment

Noah Ajayi must kick on after signing contract

On September 25, Ajayi signed a long-term professional contract with Man United after starring for Darren Fletcher's U18s last term.

The Hamburg-born starlet has since made three appearances in 2026/27, scoring once in a 2-0 victory over Newcastle United in the U18s Premier League.

Ajayi must use his professional contract and his precocious talents to kick on this season and become a regular in the U21s.

He's only made four appearances in that age group, but as he turns 18 in November, the onus will be on him to step up and make a name for himself.

Then, Michael Carrick will be forced to take even more notice and perhaps hand him his debut.

JJ Gabriel's potential departure only increases Ajayi's importance even further, as several believe he can go on to become the latest star to emerge from their esteemed academy.