JJ Gabriel is free to pursue a move away from Manchester United after turning 16, with several leading European clubs reportedly monitoring the highly rated youngster.
The United prospect celebrated his birthday on Tuesday, only weeks after he surprisingly asked for his registration at Old Trafford to be terminated.
Manchester United had no intention of allowing Gabriel to leave this season. However, the club could have limited control over his future if he is able to obtain an EU passport.
Gabriel would not be permitted to move to another Premier League club until the end of the season unless Manchester United agreed to cancel his registration. Brexit regulations also prevent English players from joining European clubs before they turn 18.
At 16, however, Gabriel would be able to move abroad and play immediately if he secures an EU passport, although any transfer would remain subject to Fifa approval.
His father, Joe O’Cearuill, represented the Republic of Ireland, while his mother has a Cypriot passport. Those family connections could give Gabriel a route to obtaining an EU passport.
Such a development could cost Manchester United millions in potential transfer value and compensation.
If Gabriel joined another Premier League club, the case would go before a tribunal, which would determine the compensation due to United. The club would be expected to seek a payment running into millions for a teenager regarded as one of its brightest prospects.
A move to a club outside England would not be handled through that process. Manchester United would instead be eligible only for “Fifa training compensation”, which is generally a fixed payment of up to £300,000.
The possibility of Gabriel securing an EU passport has therefore increased concern at United, particularly with interest reportedly coming from some of Europe’s biggest clubs.
Bayern Munich and Real Madrid are among those looking to strengthen their groups of young attacking players.
Gabriel has reportedly been training in Barcelona ahead of a potential move to the side.
