Two Premier League clubs make moves for Man Utd wonderkid JJ Gabriel after bombshell exit request

Manchester United wonderkid JJ Gabriel is reportedly attracting interest from two Premier League clubs and across Europe after asking to leave Old Trafford.

The 15-year-old stunned United by formally notifying the club that he wants his registration cancelled with immediate effect, which would allow him to become a free agent.

And there has already been a significant development, with Gabriel's camp said to remain adamant that he wants a new challenge despite United reportedly not giving up hope of resolving the situation.

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JJ Gabriel attracting interest after Man Utd exit request

Transfer correspondent Ben Jacobs reports that two other Premier League clubs have shown interest in Gabriel following the shock development.

There is also interest from clubs in LaLiga and Germany, potentially giving the teenager several options should he successfully secure his release from Man United.

Jacobs reports that the player's side are "adamant" that they wish to leave Old Trafford in search of a new challenge.

Chelsea could be one potential destination, with talkSPORT's Alex Crook reporting last week that the London club were monitoring Gabriel's situation.

It represents a remarkable turn of events for a player regarded as one of the brightest prospects in United's academy.

Gabriel has been at the club since the age of 11 and has already trained with the first team after rapidly progressing through United's age groups.

He also scored a hat-trick on his UEFA Youth League debut earlier this month, becoming United's youngest-ever goalscorer in the competition in the process.

The teenager has even been nicknamed 'Kid Messi' and former United star Ryan Giggs recently described him as a "generational talent".

But his future at Old Trafford has suddenly been plunged into major doubt.

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What happens next with JJ Gabriel and can Man Utd stop him leaving?

Gabriel's request does not necessarily mean he is automatically free to join another club.

Players cannot sign professional contracts until they are 17, while scholarship agreements cannot be signed until the age of 16. Gabriel celebrates his 16th birthday on October 6.

Premier League rules also state that a youth player's registration can only be cancelled during their registration period if the club, player and their parent or carer all agree.

If an agreement cannot be reached, however, any party involved can ask the Premier League to make a binding decision on a request to terminate the registration.

United therefore have the option of challenging Gabriel's request and are reportedly yet to consider the situation irretrievable.

But the latest development potentially makes their task significantly more difficult.

Not only is Gabriel's camp said to be determined to pursue a new challenge, there now appears to be no shortage of potential suitors if he does become available.

With two Premier League sides and clubs in Spain and Germany reportedly showing interest, United could now face a major battle to keep one of their most highly-rated academy talents at Old Trafford.