According to Manchester Evening News, 16-year-old Manchester United prospect JJ-Gabriel is planning to leave on a free transfer in January.

Manchester United are reportedly shocked by Gabriel's decision. The club had planned to include him in the squad for the League Cup match last month against Brighton. If he had played, he would have surpassed David Gaskell, who made his debut at 16 years and 19 days in 1956, to become Manchester United's youngest player.

Manchester United still believe the situation can be resolved, as Gabriel's contract has not expired. The player, born in 2010, cannot terminate his registration unless all parties agree. However, after turning 16 on Tuesday, he can now negotiate a transfer abroad, facilitated by his EU passport.

According to Sky Germany, Gabriel has indicated he wants to leave Manchester United on a free transfer during the January window. Reports suggest interest from Barcelona and Real Madrid is "very concrete," with both clubs ready to offer "XXL packages" to the teenager including salary, bonuses, and signing fees.

Bayern Munich have not given up and have held fresh negotiation rounds, while Paris Saint-Germain are described as "waiting."

Sky Sports also reported that Gabriel may soon obtain a Cypriot passport through his mother. Combined with his existing Irish and English passports, this would enable him to secure automatic freedom of movement rights within EU countries.

Amid speculation about Gabriel's future, he travelled to Barcelona to train during the extended international break and held talks with the club. Barcelona sporting director Deco previously downplayed transfer rumors.

Deco stated on 24 September: "There's nothing to say about this kid. There are always players linked with us, and that's normal. Even for young players, there's a big transfer market."

Deco added: "We're not interested in players with his situation. I'm not sure what's happening or whether he's still a Manchester United player. We're not involved. First, before taking action, we need to understand the situation clearly. Talking about teenage players isn't something we should be doing."

Last month, ahead of Manchester United's away match against Fulham, manager Carrick was asked about the midfielder's situation and called for calm. Carrick said: "I just want to reiterate what was said earlier this week: he's still a child, and we can't say anything publicly about this. We have to be careful with exposure and scrutiny, be sensible, and think about it. The situation will resolve itself."

Gabriel last played for Manchester United in a 5-0 victory last month over Sabah in the UEFA Youth League.

His father and agent hoped he would feature in the senior team's Champions League match against the same opponent, but Manchester United left him out of the squad, reportedly angering the player and his family.

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