Real Madrid close in on Manchester United youngster JJ Gabriel, beating Bayern Munich

Real Madrid are very close to signing Manchester United youngster JJ Gabriel, one of the most promising teenagers in Europe, according to reports. The Spanish club appears to have won the race for the Englishman's signature, ahead of Bayern Munich, Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, who were also interested. Latest reports suggest the deal is imminent and could be announced by Real Madrid at any time.

Bayern held talks but did not match the offer

Journalist Christian Falk reported in his latest column that Bayern Munich had been in talks with the player and his entourage. The forward had also visited the Bundesliga club's facilities. However, Bayern were not prepared to meet the financial terms that Real Madrid and Barcelona were willing to offer. The German club was also not prioritising a forward signing at the time.

A player set on Spain

According to the same report, the player had his heart set on a move to Spain. That preference, combined with the more concrete interest from Real Madrid, appears to have been decisive in the chase for his signature.

A busy window for Real Madrid

The move comes only a few weeks after the end of the summer transfer window, in which Real Madrid signed several new players to strengthen almost every area of the team. While most of those arrivals were experienced and established players, the club also added exciting young talents, most notably Yan Diomande and Carlos Espi.

If the transfer is completed, Real Madrid will hope that JJ Gabriel continues to develop at the same pace he has shown so far in his career, or faster, and becomes a significant success for the club in the seasons ahead.