Man Utd want Norwegian wonderkid who smashed Erling Haaland record to replace JJ Gabriel

Manchester United sent scouts to watch one of the most talked-about youngsters in world football, just days after JJ Gabriel and his representatives requested that his registration be terminated.

It looks like JJ Gabriel will leave Old Trafford in the not-so-distant future, but United are wasting no time in identifying a potential replacement for the teenager.

On Sunday afternoon, a Scandinavian scout from the Premier League club was in attendance for Valerenga's 1-1 draw with Fredrikstad to keep a close eye on highly-rated forward Gabriel Rajkovic.

READ MORE: Why JJ Gabriel wants to quit Man Utd revealed

Who is Gabriel Rajkovic? And why is he being chased by several top clubs?

Rajkovic, who turns 16 in February, has made a remarkable start to his professional career.

Back in March, the Norwegian became the youngest player ever to appear in the Eliteserien, when he came on as a second-half substitute against Sandefjord, aged 15 years and 20 days.

A few months later, Rajkovic came agonisingly close to securing another record after scoring against Champions League giant killers Bodo/Glimt at the age of 15 years and 166 days.

It was a goal that made him the youngest Valerenga player ever to score in the Eliteserien and the second-youngest scorer in the history of the Norwegian top flight, behind only Martin Odegaard.

To put that record into perspective, former Molde striker Erling Haaland was 17 years and 16 days old when he scored his first Eliteserien goal.

So, what type of player is he? Standing at around 1.88m (6ft 2in), the versatile Rajkovic brings a unique style of play. Mainly a winger, he can play on either flank or through the middle as a striker.

Like the departing JJ Gabriel, Rajkovic likes to receive the ball, cut inside and drive towards the opposition box.

He may be an unusual size for a wide player, but the teenager would bring flair to United's forward line if he does make the move. “He is quick," said Valerenga coach Johannes Moesgaard. "He has a lot of power.”

Manchester United will be impressed by Gabriel Rajkovic feedback

In addition, Valerenga head coach Geir Bakke recently said he has "never coached a talent who has been better at such a young age" when discussing Rajkovic, who has also been praised for his mentality.

Bakke added: “His understanding of the game, dedication, and willingness to work incredibly hard both ways are already there, and that’s impressive.”

United are likely to face stiff competition from some of Europe's elite in their pursuit of Rajkovic. Barcelona have also sent a scout to watch the teenager this season.